Colleen Burns

Passed away on August 7, 2025 at the age of 68.

She is survived by her son, Chad Burns; dear friend, Donna Gipner (Grammy) and brothers and sisters Jim, James, Sherl and Stephanie. She also held a special place in her heart for Kathryn Hand, her niece and nephew Michaela and Adam and her extended nieces and nephews Josh, Jen and Jared along with so many others. She loved and cared for all others throughout her journey. She loved and is loved by so many other spiritual family members - the Hands (She loved you very much, Katie!), the Rogalskis, her former foster parents, the Marchners and more.

Colleen was a teenage, single gay mother in the 1970's and her toughness in life reflected that. Someone who always found the best in others and believed in them even when they did not believe in themselves. Her unwavering belief in the certainty of your eventual victory carried her and others through some very hard times.

She was the hardest working person we knew. Once she became disabled, she worked as hard at fighting that as she worked to provide a home for all the people she loved. When her dementia manifested, she fought to create more and more moments and preserve the love and memories she'd worked so hard to build her whole life.

Take the lessons Colleen shared and remember the love she always conveyed and hold onto that. Wherever she is now, she continues to hold that light for you. Never forget Colleen Burns.

I Love you Mom.

Contributions may be made to: Monroe Community Hospital in honor of their compassionate care and commitment to resident happiness.

To share a memory of Colleen or leave a special message for her family, visit the guest book below.