Robert Arthur Burns

Robert Arthur "Bob" Burns, esteemed Denver journalist, editor, and public relations executive, passed away peacefully at home on July 8, 2024, at the age of 87.

Born in Denver on July 19, 1936, to Arthur and Dorothy Burns, Robert attended St. Dominic's and Regis High School before enlisting in the United States Navy. He served honorably until 1960, stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. In 1956, he married Muriel Jane Felker, beginning a partnership that would endure nearly 68 years. 

Robert pursued higher education at the University of Denver, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism in 1962 and a Master's in International Studies in 1966. His distinguished career began at The Denver Post, followed by a position as a staff reporter for The Wall Street Journal in Dallas. A brief period with the CIA in 1967 added an intriguing chapter to his professional life before his return to journalism at the Topeka Capital Journal in 1969.

Returning to Colorado, Robert joined the Rocky Mountain News, serving as Business Editor, Features Editor, and Assistant Managing Editor for more than a decade. He often reminisced fondly about the camaraderie and excitement of the newsroom during this period. His transition to financial and corporate communications in 1979 led to executive roles with organizations including Frontier Airlines, Public Service Company of Colorado, Colorado State University, the Denver Botanic Gardens, and Metropolitan State College of Denver. His work in public relations and corporate communications earned him numerous local and national awards, and he regularly contributed articles to various industry publications.

In retirement, Robert found joy in life's simpler pleasures. He cherished time with family, particularly enjoying trips to Canada's Maritimes. A devoted grandfather, he was a fixture at his grandchildren's lacrosse and hockey games, always occupying a front-row seat and cheering them on. An avid reader with a deep love for history, Robert delighted in sharing his knowledge and passion for writing with younger generations.

While Robert took quiet pride in his professional achievements and cherished memories of colleagues and friends, his true focus was always on family. A devoted and engaged father, and later grandfather, he remained a constant presence in his children's and grandchildren’s lives until his final days. Those who knew him will fondly remember his sharp intellect, genuine warmth, and rich sense of humor. Robert's wisdom, freely shared, was a guiding light for many. His love and support knew no bounds, and the depth of his absence is profoundly felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Robert's legacy of humble dedication to family and his generous spirit will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.

Robert is survived by his wife, Jane; children Terence, Bridget (Sammy), Hilary (Mike), Cathleen (Tom), and his cat, Stanley. He is beloved by his ten grandchildren: Maylene (Shon), Elisabeth (Mike), Haylee (Aaron), Dalton, Alix, Joe (Caroline), Sam, John, Mike, and Luke; and six great-grandchildren: Tatum, Milo, Vivian, Ray, Khai, and Kyn. He was predeceased by his parents, another son, Robert Patrick Burns, and grandson Jefery Thomas Christopher. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled in his family and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.

A Prayer Vigil will be held on July 29, 2024, at 5:30 pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2298 S Logan St, Denver CO 80210. The Funeral Mass will take place on July 30, 2024, at 10 am at the same location, followed by full military honors at Fort Logan National Cemetery, 4400 W Kenyon Ave, Denver CO, 80236, at 2 pm. A reception will follow at 4:30 pm, with details provided at the services. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Denver Dumb Friends League in Robert's memory.