Bob Burns

(From Parker Mortuary)

Robert David "Bob" Burns, age 86, Joplin, passed away on Friday, September 8, 2017 at Mercy of Joplin after a lengthy illness.

Bob was born August 8, 1931 in Kansas City, Missouri where he was adopted as an infant by the late Daniel Beaty Burns and Dorothea E. Poppenhusen Burns. Bob grew up in Kansas City where he graduated from Central High School in 1949. He then joined the United States Army in 1951, and served during the Korean Conflict where he received three bronze stars. He married Norma Jean Walker on October 11, 1952. He returned to Kansas City and began his career in sales. He moved to the Joplin area where he worked for State Beauty Supply, among others. He was a former Ambassador for the Area Chamber of Commerce, and was a founding member and current President of the Board for H.O.U.S.E. Inc. He worked tirelessly for this organization, and had a heart for those with addictions. He was proud of his sobriety of 24 years, and was a sponsor to several. 

In addition to his adoptive parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Norma Jean; a grandson, Tod Burns, and a great-grandson, Ethan Beal.

Survivors include his daughters, Pam Ames and Sharon Burns; grandchildren, Lindsey Monson (Micah) and Kendra Ames (Chisum); great-grandchildren, Aiden, Lathe, Grant, Brantley, and Silas all of Joplin; recently found 1/2 brother, Lee Sears, and 1/2 sister, Annabell Dean.

Graveside service will be Tuesday, September 12, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery Open Air Chapel with Pastor Joe Morris officiating. Full military honors will be provided by the American Legion Post #13 along with the Juliet Team of the National Guard. 

A celebration of life will follow at the H.O.U.S.E. Inc. 24706 State Hwy 171, Webb City following the graveside service.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to H.O.U.S.E. Inc., or charity of your choice.