Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Donald Burns Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Richard K. Whitton
September 5, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Cindy Roe
September 3, 2021
Remembering Donald on the 20th anniversary of 9/11....
Del Newberry
August 23, 2018
Thanks for your service. We will never forget. Much love from Texas,
Richard Whitton
September 9, 2016
I worked with then Lt.Burns in ladder 175, he was my Lt. on my first run and first fire, a 3rd. alarm in the East NY section of Brooklyn in Sept. 1970, he watched over his men like a mother hen and was one of the best fireman I ever knew, he is in my prayers always, may God bless him and his family.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
September 11, 2014
No greater love hath any man, than to lay down his life for his friends. Not mere words, rather your legacy. And after 13 years, the living example of service, honor and courage you demonstrated that dreadful day, continue inspiring. Just as your memory does also. May God bless your family with peace. We will never forget. Thank you for your life, your sacrifice
Alfred Gifford
May 15, 2014
He was my chief in company 324 he was a great man
Beverly Sutton Lawrence
September 11, 2013
Courage, imagination, determination, dedication - that's what the World saw, as the NYC 'first responders' rose up as one, to the challenge of helping complete strangers out of the damaged and dangerous Towers. Courage, imagination, determination, dedication - that's what the World saw, when a jet - a bomb - heading for DC was deflected by its own passengers. God Bless those who responded with Courage, imagination, determination, and dedication ... we will never forget. The impotence and bitterness of terrorists will never be a match for the courage, imagination, determination and dedication of the NYC FD and NYC PD
Dick Mohrmann
September 11, 2013
Miss you. Regret we lost touch over the years. Thanks for your bravery and courage.
Chet Burge
September 8, 2013
Mrs. Burns, our son (Cody Burge) participated in the memorial climb @ Dallas yesterday. He climbed for Mr. Donald and after reading only a bit this afternoon, I can tell he was a special person. We cannot understand your loss, but we can do 2 things, never forget and pray for you and your family. Chet Burge 9/8/13
Barbara Boam
July 13, 2013
I walked a mile for you (mile #280) on 6/11/13 as a dedication to your life.
September 12, 2012
Thank you for the reminder of Chief Burns heroism. We must not forget. God bless you.
Kathleen Burns
September 11, 2012
Love you, Uncle Donald. We all miss you so much.
Rick Reed
September 11, 2012
Donald, 11 years later and remembering you never stops. We miss you.
Donald Burns
September 10, 2012
All though I did not know Chief Burns, we shared several things including our name. I to have spent many years in public service as a police officer.Following the attacks, I joined with 48 others from my department who traveled to New York willing to do anything to help. NYPD gave asignments throughout the city as well as at ground zero. Loking back it was one moment I was extremely proad to be in public service. May Chief Burns' family find comfort in all the prayetrs offered on his behalf.
April 25, 2012
To The Family,
I did not know Chief Burns but all Firefighters should be respected for the dangerous, serious, responsibility that they have taken on. I offer my deepest of condolences to you in the loss of your loved one.
Sincerely,
Mr. Terry of NC
Fred Vilsmeier
September 12, 2011
My mother was given a card at church yesterday that contained a photo of Chief Burns with some brief info.She prayed for Mr.Burns and his family and later gave me the card.Last night after the ceremonies all over our great country I looked Mr.Burns up on this site and said my own prayers.I didnt know anyone that was lost on 9/11 but now I do.This man was a hero and may his memory live on...
Ann Sawchuck
September 12, 2011
My son carried Chief Burns name in a memorial march and service in Portland, Maine, organized by our local police and firefighters. It was a moving ceremony and an honor for all to be able to participate. Chief Burns life and work should never be forgotten and he should always be honored as a heroic man. We are humbled. We pray for the best for his family.
John Peter W (FF)
September 6, 2011
Always in deep respect.
Robert Lavelle
August 30, 2011
WE WILL NEVER FORGET THAT DAY AND THE PEOPLE THAT DID THIS TO YOU AND US...
Virginia Romano
August 27, 2011
10, 20, 30 years... it doesn't matter how much time passes, the pain and sadness will never fade, nor will the memory of you. That smile and your laugh stay with me always. Proud to have called you "Uncle"
Deputy Chief Jim Dowd
July 21, 2011
I first met Chief Burns at the First Line Supervsors School in 1986. Got to know him as very nice man and an excellent representative of the FDNY. I hope his family is well and taken care of.
I know he is up ther watching over all of us.
April 13, 2011
never forgotten sweetheart
John Glock
April 6, 2011
Always in our thoughts and prayers
Patrick Noack
April 5, 2011
RIP Never Forgotten, prayers and continues strength to the family. God Bless.
Patrick Noack
April 5, 2011
NEVER FORGOTTEN, PRAYERS AND STRENGTH TO FAMILY. GOD BLESS
Regina Alongi
April 5, 2011
I know you are all coming up to 10 years. May God give you peace and may He give you comfort that Don is waiting for you and you will all be together again.
crystal bratcher
September 11, 2010
RIP you will never be forgotten.
Kathy Reed
June 30, 2010
We miss you and think of you often
maureen finn
September 11, 2009
RIP and God Bless you and your family.
William Sajnacki
September 11, 2009
Rest in peace. In Remembrance.
The Sajnacki Famly
Jeff Chou
September 9, 2009
God Bless you for putting your life on the line to help our nation in a time of need. I want to honor your memory by making a poster about you, This poster will be displayed at my school and might even make it onto the local News. I hope you don't mind. I'm sure you where a nice funny person, I would love to meet you.
Nancy Johnson
July 30, 2009
God bless you. I didn't know you, but from the postings in the guest book it sounds like you were loved by friends and family. My father was a volunteer fireman. We never thought he could be killed or even injured while serving the community. I guess we were pretty ingorant. I wish I could have met you. I have gained a new respect for firefighters since 9/11. You and your comrads are still not forgotten. My condolences to your family and friends who were left behind to wonder why.
Trey Fruge
September 11, 2008
Thank you for sacrificing your life for our country God bless you
Doug Abraham
June 4, 2008
God Bless all the firefighters who paid the ultimate sacrifice on that awful day!!!
Sharon
September 9, 2007
In memory..
Kristine
October 25, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
thank you
Alberto Southmoree Intermidiate school
September 28, 2006
Thank you for risking your life for others.
Evelyn B
September 13, 2006
Thank you for your courage. You will be remembered as one of America's heroes forever. God Bless!
Dawn Sproules
September 10, 2006
To the family of Donald burns.Your in my thoughts and prayer.I wanted to express my deepest sympathy for your loss.God Bless all of you.Your never alone and will never be forgotten
P Tabbernor
August 31, 2006
In remembrance....
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
William Sajnacki
September 11, 2005
As A young boy, our two families (Pacillo and Burns) often got together. I remember many adventures with Patrick in the woods near the house. What a great time we had. Mr Burns made me eat my first ham and cheese omelette. Against my better judgement, I tried it. I LOVED it. He was a great breakfast cook! That morning he may not have known it, but he taught me a valuable lesson about trying new things. That was who he was. Always an example for everyone. To his wife Betty and the family, I can only tell you that I think of him and his brave sacrifice often. We visited ground zero 2 years ago and posted his picture and a poem my wife wrote so eveyone passing by would see his kind face and remember. It was late at night and a crowd gathered to ask us questions about him. I want you to know that the city of New York still remembers and cares. I now reside in North Carolina with my wife and son, who we brought home from the hospital 1 year to the day of the 9/11 tragedy. We will teach him to honor those who died that day and remember what hate can do to innocent lives. We currently await the birth of our second child in 1 month. He/she will know Don Burns and his courage and self sacrifice.
Our thoughts are always with you, and as we have done every year since that day, we will light a candle on our doorstep. Tonight and everynight for the rest of our lives.
Dr William Sajnacki (Pacillo) Charity, Liam and "soon to be"
Donna McCarthy
November 21, 2004
I never met Mr Burns but we have had his name posted in a red heart on our refrigerator since the first anniversary of the 9-11 tragedy.My daughters school sent home hearts that day with every child so they would remember that day.I will always keep it there.
Melanie Pfeifer
October 5, 2003
All the firefighters did a great job on this sad day. They gave their lifes to save other people. They all are heros and we should never forget them.
Alex Gagnier
November 25, 2002
My uncle, Donald Burns was a great man and will never be forgotten. Below is a piece I wrote about the day of his memorial which will stay with me forever:
I’m in New York City; the clouds are rising above, capturing the light of the sun, filling darkness in the air. As I step out of the extended bus, filled with people from all over, I stand in shock at the sight I am seeing. 5th avenue blocked off, no one in sight, deserted and outrageously quiet. I look around to see everyone dressed in dark, black; exquisite dresses, looking down and thinking about this horrible tragedy. I walk along the deserted street, following my relatives in an orderly fashion, wishing that this had never taken place. The bagpipes and Knights of Columbus are now tagging along as we all pace ourselves into St. Patrick’s Cathedral, honoring a strong firefighter who saved many lives, but couldn’t afford to save his own. As I watch the proud soldiers walk down the street in pride, I know nothing will ever be the same.
Protective helicopters and policemen surround the area, making sure we are completely safe and content. I smell the faint scent of fog on a soft, early morning. I feel sad but wonderful at the same time, thinking back on this strong firefighter who was once my uncle. I slowly walk down the aisles of the cathedral, following my many relatives in an orderly fashion, making sure everything turns out perfectly. As the ceremony starts, I see warm, friendly people surrounding me everywhere, sad as can be, tears falling down their soft faces. I feel myself holding back my tears, although I do not know why. I stare into the face of the bold man that I once knew, pictures spread all around of this wise man that never deserved to dye. Me and many others are saying to ourselves, “How could this happen? The WTC was meant to stand tall forever, helping others communicate differently and making a difference in the world. This is impossible.” For we all knew this was a horrible tragedy and should never have happened. This will be something we will never forget in our lifetime and will be recorded in history books and used against the evil. I know I would give anything to turn back time and stop this event from occurring. But this is now, and that was then, I’ve lost my power, my chance to turn back history.
As the ceremony finally comes to an end, we all rush out of the cathedral, teary eyed and miserable, still standing tall for our savior and hero. People in the street stare into the eyes of these unfortunate ones, the unfortunates that have lost such a great man in their life and that will be sad forever. Long extended limos and busses drive away slowly from the cathedral knowing they will never have the chance, the chance to change history forever. Since 9/11, I have gained much respect and consideration towards all firefighters and heroes throughout the world that will always stay in my heart. Donald Burns was a great hero and will always be remembered.
Gary Grieco
September 20, 2002
It's been one year now since my brother-in-law Don perished in the World Trade Center attack. It is still hard to believe that he is no longer among us - Don was always so involved with family and friends, so full of vitality, and so fulfilled in life. As a Citywide Tour Commander, Don had many important responsibilities, and one of them was to set up the command post in Tower 2 on the tragic day now called 9-11. My family is still haunted by the chain of events that placed Don inside the lobby of Tower 2, the first building to collapse that day. But we are comforted by the knowledge that it was God's plan, and that Don lost his life while performing the job he so thoroughly loved. I believe that we all gained new found respect for courageous firefighters that day, as well as brave policeman and rescue workers. And those unsung heros, everyday citizens who performed extraordinary acts on that day, must never be forgotten. To all those who lost family and friends on 9-11, my sympathy goes out to you, and may God comfort you.
Stacy Etue
September 5, 2002
My deepest Sympathy goes to the Burns Family. I dated one of Chief Burn's sons many years ago. I live upstate and never paid attention to the names until I read an article mentioning Chief Burns. I remember him and his whole family as being a caring and loving family. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims families as the year anniversary is upon us.
Tina Watson
June 23, 2002
I never met Mr. Burns. He was My brothers neighbor for a few years in Smithtown. My brother is a Firefighter, he was also killed at the WTC. On memorial day, I visited my brothers grave and my sister-in -law pointed out to me that Mr. Burns was burried right by my brother. I know they are in heaven together...its just comforting to know that here on earth they are together forever too. God bless...
Angie Campbell
April 22, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Tom and Jane Cuff
March 30, 2002
We met John a few years ago while travelling for the fire service. We joined up with them in a number of cities and had a wonderful time together. He was a gentleman and so unassuming that you would think he was just a firefighter instead of FDNY Chief of Operations (his rank at the time). We became good friends in a very short time. That is how Donald was.
Our sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Tom and Jane Cuff
JIM JONES
March 22, 2002
I SEE THAT THE BODY OF CHIEF DONALD BURNS WAS FOUND. I HOPE HIS FAMILY WILL NOW FIND COMFORT AND CLOSURE. GOD BLESS YOU. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE KNOW AS A HERO AND NEVER FORGOTTEN.
Flori Batt
March 22, 2002
I read the news today : Chief Burns was recovered . God bless Chief Burns & his Family. Hopefuly this will give some closure to his family. My heart goes to you all.
LIZ JOHNSON
March 11, 2002
I NEVER MET CHIEF DONALD BURNS, BUT I DO WEAR A MEMORIAL BRACELET IN HIS HONOR. GOD BLESS CHIEF BURNS AND HIS FAMILY.
Joe Choquette
February 20, 2002
Going through Proby school together and seeing you at FD Headquarters these past few years made me even sadder for your loss. It was, and is the best job in the world. Glad I met and got to know you,
THOMAS D. SIMMONS
February 19, 2002
Donald; I remember you as a young proby when our company's would respond to the same alarms. You loved the job then and you loved it until that last alarm. You were a devoted firefighter and officer and a man to be emulated by all. May you rest in eternal peace with the Lord, you are in my prayers.
John Masterson
February 14, 2002
I had the pleasure of working with Chief Burns. He was a knowledgeable professional, and a true gentleman.
Marty Ganderson
January 15, 2002
Our sincerest sympathies and expressions of grief that words will never express or explain. In memory of Donald and with respect and support for his family and his brother Charlie who is our comrade in arms and Classmate.
USMA, 1961
January 11, 2002
May God Bless The Burns Family! May they always remember that Donald Burns was a hero! May God Bless the FDNY, NYPD, PAPD and all of those wo lost someone on September 11, 2001.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family!
Teresa Jahn
January 7, 2002
We are deeply sorry for our nation's loss of Donald. We thank him for devoting his life to help others as a firefighter. Such a profession comes with a warm and caring heart. May Donald'd courage, life and love live on in those who love him and in those who have been touched by his life. May the sorrow in your hearts be lightened by the golden memories of times together. Our hearts cry deeply for America's loss of a hero.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
maria Gagnier
January 1, 2002
Donald Burns was a hero long before Sept.11th. He was dedicated to the Fire Dept. and loved every minute of it. My sister would say it was his second wife, she and his family being his first. He was in the Fire Department for 40 years,and was planning his retirement for 2 weeks after September 11th.My prayers go out to all the victim's families at this beggining of 2002 and hope that they can find some renewed strength and comfort in the remembrance of these heroes. To repeat what a Fireman said on the news following this tragedy," They have one incredible Fire Department in Heaven."
Vicki
December 30, 2001
I did not know you but to me you are a hero. You gave your life saving others. God bless you. May you rest in peace now.
Judy Cherbonneau
December 22, 2001
Dear Donald,
I never met you, Donald, but a friend of mine told me, yesterday, what life if all about and for the first time in my life I think what he told me is what life really is all about. He told me we are not on earth for ourselves, we are on earth for someone else! You proved that and gave your life for others on September 11.
I truly believe you now live with God in Heaven because that is where Angels live.
It is now our job, to comfort and ease the pain of the survivors of that most terrible day in September and the loved ones, friends and comrades who were left behind. I do hope the millions of messages and thoughts and prayers people from all over the world express with tears in their eyes, help to bring a little bit of sunshine through the dark clouds that remind us of September 11. God Bless you, your family and friends. I am so sorry for your loss.
December 12, 2001
MAY GOD BLESS DONALD JAMES BURNS AND
MAY HE REST IN PEACE.GOD BLESS HIS
FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA
AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Musser Hall @Ursinus College
December 5, 2001
We just wanted to give our sympathies and let you know that you are not alone during this time of tragedy. May God be with you, and we wish you to have a Merry Christmas! You will never be forgotten!!
Showing 1 - 65 of 65 results
Make a Donation
in Donald Burns's name
How to support Donald's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Donald Burns's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored