Roy B. "Bud" Burns Jr.

1931 - 2024

Roy B. Burns, Jr., 93, of Eden Prairie, MN passed away peacefully on December 24, 2024.

A celebration of life service will take place at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Edina, MN, on June 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM with a luncheon served afterward.

Born in Ponca City, OK on January 15, 1931, Roy "Bud" attended Minneapolis Central High School, Macalester College, University of Minnesota, and earned a master's degree at Harvard Business School. He served in the 5th Army, 2nd, 10th, and 44th infantry divisions as Sergeant 1st class. He had a long successful career with Dayton's Department Store and served as a leader during Dayton's growth and development of Target Stores. He later served as a retail consultant with Ernst & Young.

He provided his time, financial expertise and leadership skills as a volunteer with Wings of the North, YMCA of Minneapolis Board of Directors, Salvation Army, SCORE, DRIVE, St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, and was honored as a WCCO good neighbor January 1991 and September 29, 1997. He was a life-long Zuhrah Shriner and loved activities in nature, the North Shore of Lake Superior, and world travel. Roy was a devoted father and grandfather who shared his love of the outdoors. He enjoyed hiking, camping, road trips, fishing and hunting. Roy owned a cabin in the Brainerd Lakes area and enjoyed many evenings with family and friends listening to loons call over the lake.

Roy was preceded in death by his wives Virginia (nee Philblad) and Allene (nee Prichard).

He is survived by his children Bonnie Burns, Barbara Churchill, Stacy Abena, Blake Burns, and several grandchildren.

Roy will be remembered for his helpful spirit, generosity, and ability to inspire others to achieve. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the organizations where Roy volunteered for many years.