Michael E. Burns

Michael Edward Burns, beloved father, husband and friend left our earthly world Saturday, December 10, 2022 surrounded by his closest loved ones. Born April 25, 1943 in Meridian, MS, Burnsy or Pop Fly as he was affectionately known to family and friends, served in the United States Navy before settling in Dallas, PA for a number of years, until spending his last 35 years in Canaan Township, Wayne County, Pennsylvania. A consummate people person, he spent his career in the lumber industry, building countless valued relationships with independent trade and craftsmen throughout eastern Pennsylvania and southern New York, most recently as an over the road salesman with Russell Plywood. However, it will be the dogs he met along his travels who will miss him the most, as he always had treats in his pocket to buy their love. An avid outdoorsman, he treasured his time in the woods and on the water with the men that meant the most to him, taking arguably as much joy in the preparation as in the actual hunt. He was especially proud of and fiercely loyal to the strong and independent women in his life, always believing there wasn’t anything they couldn’t do - unless it was finding the perfect skin on hot dog or using the correct garbage can. Though what he loved the most throughout his years was being surrounded by friends and family at various parties and holidays, always preparing 10 times more food than anyone could eat. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Deborah Ryan, at home in Canaan Township; son and best friend, Raymond Litz and daughter in law, Lynn, Dallas, PA; daughters and favorite sparring partners, Danielle Kmetz and son in law, Michael, Jackson Township, PA, Mary Endrusick and son in law Brian, Olyphant, PA, and daughter Debbie Flanigan, Duryea, PA. His most precious gifts left behind are his grandchildren Kimberly (Litz) Dymond and her husband and children, Luke, Mason, Ryan and Colt; Andrew Rivera; Walker Kmetz; Claire Endrusick; and Elliott Endrusick. In line with his wishes, he is to be cremated, and a Celebration of his Life will be held at a future date, at the convenience of his family, who all hope the next time you hear a Highway Men or Cat Stevens song you raise a vodka club, Keystone Light or diet decaffeinated coke to his memory. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Wayne County Community Foundation – Children and Youth Advisory Board in his name and are asked to treasure the time you have with loved ones and those closest to you. Arrangements and cremation are entrusted to Howell Family Funeral Home, Inc. Edward R. Howell, Funeral Director, 269 Belmont Street, Waymart, PA 18472. www.HowellFamilyFuneralHome.com