Dale L. Burns

Dale L. Burns, a devoted family man, skilled craftsman, and lover of life’s simple joys, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2024, at the age of 87, surrounded by his family at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

He was born on June 23, 1937, to Homer and Blanche Burns in Centralia, Kansas. As a young boy, he learned to work the family farm, helping his father and brothers. Among his many jobs, he milked the cows every morning before school. After the family moved to the city, Dale attended St. Joseph High School in Shawnee, where he lettered in basketball, sparking a lifelong love of sports.

Dale met the love of his life when he asked Jeanette Sullivan to dance in 1955 and married her on February 11, 1956. They danced together for 67 years, adding three children, six grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren along the way. With Jeanette, he built a life and their home—a home that always welcomed family and friends for card games, Sunday lunches, and holiday celebrations.

He was a member of the Carpenter’s Union for 50 years. As a construction foreman, he left his mark on Kansas City through the construction of its roads and bridges, as well as the foundations of Arrowhead and Kauffman Stadiums. Dale also found great joy in his work as a successful auctioneer, developing expertise in everything from farm equipment to precious antiques. During his years working the family farm in Louisburg, Dale spent countless hours tending to his cattle, mending fences, and putting up hay, embodying his tireless work ethic.

He was a collector of trains, antiques—especially carnival glass and fruit jars—poker chips, barbed wire, watch fobs, coins, and much more. He was also a traveler, enjoying trips to both Hawaii and Alaska, creating cherished memories along the way.

Dale was an avid sports fan, often found in his recliner watching a game. He also enjoyed gambling: playing poker with the family, rolling the dice at craps tables in Vegas, and sports betting. He loved bluegrass and country music, attending shows in Branson, and spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, boating, and waterskiing. Dale also cherished time with his ten loyal dogs.

Dale’s memory will live on through his loving wife of 67 years, Jeanette; his daughters and sons-in-law, Kathy and Joe Addington of Olathe, and Linda and Gene Smith of Liberty, MO; his cherished grandchildren, Jennifer Addington, Amy Wiedenmann, Eric Smith (Liz), Matthew Smith (Amber), Andrew Addington (Alex), and Steven Smith (Tori); and his ten adored great-grandchildren, who all loved their “Gramps.” He is also survived by his siblings, Floyd Burns (New York), Rex Burns (Kansas City), and Karen Dudley (Atlanta), as well as many nieces and nephews who had a special place in his life. Dale was preceded in death by his son, Bryan, his parents, and three of his brothers.

Dale will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his curiosity, quick wit, strength, and love for his family. Memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimer’s research in Dale’s honor. Online contributions may be made at www.kuendowment.org/give. Please indicate that donations are for the Dale Burns memorial. 

Or Mail to: KU Endowment 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, mail stop 3012Kansas City, KS 66160

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