R David Burns

R. David Burns, 72, of North East, passed away at his residence on Friday, April 24, 2026. He was born on March 4, 1954, in Erie, a son of the late Robert C. and Thora Lewis Burns. David attended North East High School and was a proud member of the Carpenter’s local 81 Union of Greater PA, the North East Vets Club, North East Athletic Club, Brotherhood of St. Joseph. He was also the founder of the Amy Ride Foundation. David found great joy in the outdoors and especially loved camping, golfing, fishing, and hunting. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen Ann Mailea Burns; his brothers, Donald and James Burns; his niece, Ashlie Northrup; and his brother-in-law, Raymond Griffith. David is survived by his daughters, Melissa Ruiz (Cesar) of Erie, Tanya Mailea of Erie, and Christina Guertin of North East; his son, Kevin Guertin of Erie; his sisters, Terrie Griffith of Erie, Pam Coe (Tom) of North East, and Betty Burns of North East; nine grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and great-grandchildren.Dave was a man that appreciated someone getting their point across with minimum words. It earned him many nicknames throughout the years. The most infamous was “prick”. It embodied his give shit but make it quick style of all his own. Anyone that knew and loved Dave knew his “stfu” meant he heard ya. All that knew him can rest assured that Inspite of ourselves he is sitting on the rainbow with his soulmate. Resting easy. Well earned.  A celebration of life will be held on May 16th from 3 to 7 p.m at the VFW post 4789 in North East. Arrangements have been entrusted to the William D. Elkin Funeral Home, 65 South Lake Street, North East. Condolences may be sent to elkinfh.com.

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