Zachary Burns

Zachary Seth Burns was born on a cold and snowy day on January 30, 2002 in Provo, Utah to Stephen Rodney and Andrea (Paulson) Burns. The 2002 Winter Olympics were beginning in Salt Lake City, and if babies were competing, he would have easily won the Gold Medal for the most stunning head of hair. That rich, dark hair along with his captivating smile were the defining features that characterized his handsome appearance throughout his life.
Raised in Lindon, Utah, he loved immersing himself in nature, whether hiking the foothills of Mt. Baldy, longboarding and biking along the Murdock Canal, or playing football and basketball with his friends. Although the youngest of five siblings, he humorously claimed to be at the "top of the family food chain," and definitely ruled the roost. He loved his family and was very intentional about fostering his relationships. He deeply cared about the people in his life.
He graduated with honors from Pleasant Grove High School in 2020 and was pursuing a computer science degree at Brigham Young University. At the same time, he was gaining practical experience while working as a Software Technology Developer Intern at TRC. His work included developing a web application which would perform an employee's technical mastery assessment. Previously, Zach worked at R&R BBQ, where his role as a grill cook ignited a true passion for cooking. His skills in the kitchen were remarkable, and his family often enjoyed the fruits of his culinary expertise. Driven by a strong determination and a relentless pursuit of perfection, Zach excelled in every endeavor he undertook.
Zach loved playing the guitar and enjoyed jamming with his friends. He also dabbled in woodworking and was in the midst of building his own guitar. His creativity, dedication, curiosity, and intelligence were matched only by his exceptional sense of humor. Everyone who knew him appreciated his quick wit and clever banter, as Zach had a unique talent for bringing laughter to those around him.
Zach was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and had a strong conviction and testimony of his Savior Jesus Christ and the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. He was dedicated to self-improvement and was guided by a strong sense of moral integrity. He was profoundly spiritual and introspective, frequently engaging in philosophical discussions on a variety of topics. Interested in world events and politics, he dedicated time to studying current affairs and discussing them. He cared about the significant events shaping the world around him and wanted the world to be a better place. He was a deep thinker and thought critically and intentionally about how he expressed himself.
Zachary's passing on August 6, 2024 has left a profound void among all his friends and loved ones who eagerly look forward to a joyful reunion with him in the future. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Harry Rodney and Jasmine (Smith) Burns. He is survived by his parents, Stephen and Andrea (Paulson) Burns; 1 brother Joshua (Audrey) Burns; 3 sisters: Haley Burns, Lyndi (Elias) Terreros, Marissa (Carter) Gunnell; 2 nephews: Ammon Burns and Declan Gunnell, and by his grandparents Fred and Linda (Lewis) Paulson along with many wonderful aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Services are under the direction of Olpin Family Mortuary in Pleasant Grove, Utah.
Funeral services for Zachary will be held Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at 11:00 AM in the Lindon Central Stake Center at 56 East 600 North, Lindon. Friends and family may attend a visitation Monday evening, August 12th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Olpin Family Mortuary; 494 South 300 East; Pleasant Grove. A visitation will also take place on Tuesday from 9:30 - 10:45 AM at the church prior to the services. Interment will be in the Orem City Cemetery.
Funeral services will be live-streamed and recorded on Zachary's memorial page.
Condolences may be sent to the family at olpinmortuary.com.