Charles Joseph Francis Burns

January 31, 1954 ~ October 2, 2024 (age 70)

Charles (Charlie) Joseph Francis Burns of South Bend, IN, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024, at the age of 70, surrounded by his loving family. He was a man who created great memories and moments, and his impact will be felt by those who knew him for years to come.

Charlie is survived by his beautiful and bubbly wife, Barbara; their three children, Heather (Bryan Cline), Brian, and Colin (Janessa); sister Debbie Breedlove; brothers David and Bobby Burns; and grandchildren Nolan, Caitlin, Addie, Lucy, and Mary; along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles, his mother, Patricia, and his brother Kevin.

Professionally, Charlie was as steady as his love of Notre Dame and Chicago Bears football. After graduating from Indiana University South Bend, he eventually landed a position at Simplicity Patterns in Niles, MI, as a Credit Manager. Charlie found a long-term home, working there for 27 years before transferring to Gast Manufacturing in Benton Harbor, MI, for another 16 years. Cancer sadly forced him to retire in August 2024.

The love of his life was Barb (Sousley) Burns. Their first date was back in 1970, and they never looked back. Married in 1975, Charlie and Barb created a fun-loving, lasting legacy with their three children. Charlie and Barb were almost inseparable, taking road trips around the Midwest and longer journeys to Key West, FL. Key West was their favorite place on Earth, especially when enjoyed with Barb’s sister Nancy and her husband (and Chuck’s best friend) Jack Plennert. Charlie’s favorite spot, Captain Tony’s Saloon, will forever be special. Just one year short of 50 years of marriage, the love between Charlie and Barb will be everlasting.

Charlie had many passions, including fishing along the St. Joseph River for steelhead. He often took the road less traveled on trips, earning the nickname “Shortcut Chuck.” He loved a Friday Fish Fry, and was proud of his Irish heritage and membership in the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Charlie was a devout Catholic who never missed Sunday Mass, which even included during the Blizzard of 1978. He truly was one of a kind, a guy who shot from the hip and spoke his mind. Everyone has a Charlie one-liner. Most importantly, his biggest passion was his family who he put first every single day.

Funeral services will be Thursday, Oct. 10, at Saint Anthony’s Church, 2310 E Jefferson Blvd, in South Bend. There will be a receiving line starting at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Catholic funeral mass at 11 a.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Center for Hospice Care in the name of Charles Burns. To leave the family an online condolence or share a memory visit www,hahnfuneralhomes.com

10/04/2024 EJS

https://www.hahnfuneralhomes.com/obituary/CharlesCharlie-Burns