Marlene A. "Companion" Burnam

Marlene Ann (Companion) Burnam passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026, surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, service, and unwavering support for those she loved.

Born in Syracuse, NY to the late Joseph and Philomena (Camasta) Companion, Marlene attended North High School and remained deeply connected to her community. She was a devoted Catholic and faithfully attended Mass at the Our Lady of Pompei Catholic Church and St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, where her faith guided her daily life.

Along with her parents, Marlene was predeceased by her beloved brother, Joseph Companion, and her loving son, Mark Burnam, whom she carried in her heart always.

She is survived by her cherished children: Denise (Mike) Kreuzer, Scott (Kendra) Burnam, and Dan (Beth) Burnam; as well as her daughter-in-law, Lana Burnam, Mark's wife. Marlene raised four successful children while working tirelessly at Swanson's Dry Cleaners and the Learn As You Grow Daycare Center, a testament to her strength, dedication, and selfless love.

Marlene was a proud and devoted grandmother to Hugh Burnam, Brad Burnam, Tyler Burnam, Cheyenne (Russ) Oakes, Derek (Elaine) Kreuzer, Tanner (Dia) Kreuzer, Dan Burnam, Luke Burnam, Christina Burnam, Matt Burnam, Kaylen Burnam, and Braedon Burnam.

Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her great-grandchildren: Hugh Burnam, Dash Burnam, Rynn Oakes, Laela Oakes, Roman Kreuzer, and Amia Kreuzer. Marlene is also survived by her niece, Amy Jo Companion.

Nothing brought Marlene greater happiness than watching her children and grandchildren grow and compete at various athletic pursuits, especially on the lacrosse field. She was a huge and loyal fan of the Henninger High School lacrosse team where her 3 sons excelled and never missed an opportunity to cheer them or the team on. Her dedication to youth athletics extended far beyond her own family. She earned the Pop Warner Volunteer of the Year Award in 1986 and was later inducted into the Pop Warner Hall of Fame for her countless hours of service as a cheerleading coach and coordinator with the Eastwood Bears Football Association, along with the many other roles and duties she selflessly fulfilled within the organization. She also proudly coached her daughter Denise while competing on the softball field for the Eastwood EAGLS, continuing her lifelong commitment to mentoring and supporting young athletes.

Marlene was well known for her love of cooking, especially her famous meatballs and sauce and her comforting chicken noodle soup, which she lovingly prepared for friends, family, and anyone in need. Her generosity extended beyond her home-she was passionate about feeding local law enforcement officers from the East Syracuse, Syracuse, and DeWitt Police Departments, all of whom became part of her extended "family."

She enjoyed bowling, playing bingo and bocce, and playing cards with friends, always valuing laughter and togetherness. She was also a devoted fan of Elvis Presley, whose music brought her great joy throughout her life.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate healthcare team at PACE CNY for their exceptional care, kindness, and dedication shown to our mom.

Visitation will take place on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, immediately followed by a funeral service in celebration of Marlene's life at 6:00 p.m. in the funeral home, 3401 Vickery Rd. (Corner of Buckley Rd.) Syracuse, NY 13212.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in honor of Marlene Burnam to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place Memphis, TN 38105 or https://www.stjude.org/donate

Marlene Ann Burnam will be remembered for her deep faith, generous heart, tireless work ethic, and the countless ways she showed up for her family, friends, and community. Her love lives on in the generations she nurtured and the many lives she touched.