John Byron Burns

Died on May 31, 2023 at the age of 72. Survived by Peggy Schumaker Burns and their children, Fr. John Burns, Meggy (David) Voss nee Burns, Fr. Patrick Burns, and Mary (Michael) Mueller nee Burns, six grandchildren and his sister Wendy (Johnathan) Crawford nee Burns.

John grew up in Fox Point, Wisconsin, graduated from Nicolet high school, and went on to Cornell School of Hotel Administration. Upon graduation he went to work in the family business, Heinemann’s Restaurants, with his father and uncle, and where he eventually became owner, President and CEO, and also owner of John Byron’s Restaurant. Growing up he loved Boy Scouts, Camp Manitowish and summers at the Town Club. He was a gourmet cook and his passion in life, besides his family, was wine. He spent many joyful years in the Chevaliers du Tastevin wine group. He was always civic minded as a member First Harvesters, The Greater Milwaukee Committee, member and President of Milwaukee Rotary Club, President of the Zoological society and co-chair of the first Zoo Ball, member of the Platypus Society, Young Presidents Organization and founder of The Grape Lakes Food and Wine Festival.

 He took profound interest in the stories and lives of everyone around him. Most of all, he will be remembered as the man who was always there when someone was sick or in need and would always show up with Heinemann’s candy, baked goods, or a bottle of wine and a witty comment to flag low spirits.

After his debilitating illness in 1996 he demonstrated unflinching commitment to his personal motto, “Never give in” and forged forward with courage, a smile, and an indomitable spirit. John went to Mass daily and said countless rosaries as a devout convert to Catholicism. He spent his last decade at Alexian Village where he drove around on his scooter passing out positive comments to everyone he met. He knew everyone’s name and family history, including the staff to whom he was known as the Wine Man. He lit up an often dull world.

But his first passion was his children and grandchildren. His prayers were always directed at his family. He loved going to the family cabin in Greenbush and the family cabin in Conover because it meant he was with his beloved children and grandchildren. He is irreplaceable in the hearts of his family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 from 10am to 12pm at Lumen Christi Parish (2750 W Mequon Rd, Mequon, WI 53092) followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12pm and burial at Lumen Christi Cemetery.

His family would greatly appreciate prayers for his eternal repose.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John's name can be made to St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church in Cedarburg, Wisconsin.