Wayne Lawrence Burns

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Wayne Lawrence Burns of Miramichi, NB, husband of Darla (Shea) Burns, which took place on Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024, at the Miramichi Regional Hospital surrounded by family.

Born on October 27th, 1958, in Newcastle, NB, he was the son of the late Lawrence and Shirley (Hubbard) Burns. Wayne adored both of his parents, and we are at peace knowing that he is with them once again.

Wayne will be greatly missed by his daughter, Erin Burns (Christopher Foran), sister, Lois Oldfield (Kenny), brother, Paul Burns (Paula), mother-in-law, Sandra Shea, sister-in-law, Natalie Mills (Garth) and brother-in-law, Kirk Shea (Tracy). He had a special bond with his nieces and nephews, Cathy Wallace, Larry Burns (Crystal), Michael Burns (Jenna), and Cole Shea. He will miss spoiling his grand-nieces, Flynn and Kennedy, and grand-nephews, Jonathan, Walker, and Parker. He is predeceased by his father-in-law, Eugene Shea, nephew, Paul Wallace, and many special aunts and uncles.

At age 14, Wayne began working in the electrical field and always said that he would retire when he stopped enjoying his work. This day never came. He enjoyed many years working locally as a Maintenance Electrician and after the mill’s closure, he expanded his career across Canada where he thrived in many leadership roles. His level of experience and ability to troubleshoot, think outside of the box, and find creative solutions to complex problems got him in the door at many companies, but what made him stand out as a team leader were his undeniable people skills. He always had time for every member of his team, no matter their status, a trait he credited his father with teaching him. He was fortunate to transform many of his professional connections into strong, personal bonds over the years and many colleagues have become like family.

Outside of work, one of Wayne’s passions was hockey, whether it be playing in his younger years, with many locals still recounting stories of the great battles they witnessed him fight on the ice. He enjoyed watching hockey games, especially his “squad” the Chicago Blackhawks, which he was a fan of since the age of three. Perhaps his greatest enjoyment in sports was as a Coach in both minor hockey and baseball. He enjoyed encouraging young people and helping them learn life’s lessons while providing them with a unique nickname along the way. Coaching was one of his favourite leadership roles that he has ever occupied, and he still kept in contact with his players many years later.

In recent years, Wayne enjoyed golfing daily when his schedule allowed, with a special group of tee-time partners. He was constantly striving to improve his game. After he obtained a hole in one at the Miramichi Golf and Country Club in 2022, he was as modest as ever. He also enjoyed spending time at the camp at the Upper Place, where he, Darla, Erin, and Christopher, and their two black labs, Gus and Clyde, could relax and spend quality family time.

Wayne and Darla were married in 1990 and built their home together from the ground up. Wayne wired the house to perfection, with techniques that are still regarded as “above and beyond” even by today’s standards. They took great pride in their home, something they both shared a passion for. They were true partners in life and in love, who cherished each other until the end.

Wayne was someone who would move heaven and earth for his family, always watching out for them and being there to provide guidance and support when he could. With Wayne, you always knew where you stood, and he was not afraid to express his emotions, especially those of a caring nature. Wayne was authentically himself at all times. He never missed an opportunity to tell his family how much he loved them and how proud he was. He will be remembered for his generosity, keen wit, and his enormous heart. His legacy will live on forever in the hearts of those he loved.

As per Wayne’s request, a “Celebration of Life” event will take place Friday, November 1st, 2024 at the Black Horse Tavern, Miramichi, NB from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. In Wayne’s memory, donations can be made to the Miramichi SPCA or a memorial of one’s choice.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Northumberland Funeral Home & Crematorium, 102 Pleasant St., telephone (506) 622-7741. Where your loved one never leaves our care.