Ret. Major John Clinton Burns

Ret. Major John Clinton Burns, 68, of La Crosse WI, peacefully passed away surrounded by family on June 8 ^th , 2021, after a brief courageous battle with cancer. Born in La Crosse, WI on October 16 ^th , 1952, to Clinton William and Doris Louise (Karsten) Burns. John graduated in 1970 from Central High School and enlisted in Army National Guard, 32 ^nd Engineers, traveling the world to Japan, Germany and Panama and retiring after 37 years. On April 17 ^th , 1976, John married Sandra Tallman, they had 3 amazing children. John worked for Trane for over 20 years retiring in 2013. During his time at Trane and after retirement he enjoyed detailed and well-planned biyearly vacations with Sandra at both coasts in Mexico. Dad had a green thumb, a living room full of plants and was known for bringing dead plants back to life and filling his back yard with flowers that were always carefully chosen. He was a hard man not to like and was loved by all that met him, he will be deeply missed.

John is survived by Sandra Burns, and their three children, Jamie, Stephanie, and Justin Burns of La Crosse, three grandchildren, Jackson, Odin, and Elsie. Brother, Jay (DeeDee) Burns; Sister, Jan (John) Burns-Fuchs; of La Crosse, and many nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, many aunts, and uncles and his two best friends Nico and Pedro.

Family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nurses and hospice staff that attended to Dad the last few weeks. We appreciate all that you did.

A gathering for family and friends will be held on Monday, June 14, 2021 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Schumacher-Kish Funeral & Cremation Services of La Crosse. A prayer service will be held at 6:00 PM. Private family burial will be in the Mormon Coulee Memorial Park.

Condolences maybe sent in c/o Stephanie Burns 1635 Hyde Ave, La Crosse WI 54601