Joseph R. Burns

Joseph R. Burns, age 89, of Pottsville, passed away at Edenbrook Greenwood Hill Nursing Home on February 18, 2026.

He was the son of James and Emma (Schoffstall) Burns.

Joe graduated from Pottsville Catholic High School, Pottsville in 1954. He served in the Marine Corp Reserves. He was a self employed masonry contractor. Joe was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church where he served on numerous committees and assisted for many years with altar serving and fundraisers. He served as a volunteer fire fighter for 62 years with the Yorkville Hose Company, driving the truck for decades. He received the Outstanding Service Award from Yorkville Hose in 2007. He was also a member of St. Bernard's Beneficial Society.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his twin brother John "Jack" Burns.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ann M. (Siminavage) Burns, originally from New Philadelphia, his children Joseph (Kathy), Ohio; Grace (Ken) Auerbeck, Middletown and Robert (Dawn), Cressona; grandchildren Joseph (Jennifer), Kristin (Josh) Lewis, Tyler (Jessica), Corey, Gabrielle (Jim) Shomberg, Casey, Gina, Braden, Brent and Delaney; nine great grandchildren, brothers James (Nancy) and Jerry (Heidi); brother and sister in law Ken and Janet Stoppi, sister in law Virginia Burns; nieces and nephews.

Joe loved hanging out at the Yorkville Hose Company. He loved attending his grandchildren's athletic events and spending time with his family. He never said no to an adventure nor to a bowl of ice cream. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Pottsville on Saturday , February 28 at 11 am with Father Bobbin officiating.

A viewing will be held prior from 9 am until the time of Mass, as the Church.

Interment will be held privately at St. John the Baptist Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Yorkville Hose Company, 1963 W Norwegian Street, Pottsville PA 17901 or St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 913 Mahantongo, Pottsville PA 17901.

To extend condolences online to the family, visit www.gsesfuneralhomes.com

Lord Ebling Haus Funeral Home and Crematory, Pottsville has been entrusted with the arrangements.