John R. Burns

John Robert Burns, 61 years of age, passed unexpectedly on October 15, 2023. John was born May 30th, 1962, in Chicago, IL to the late Robert Burns and Barbara (Konkowski) Burns. John attended Addison Trail HS, class of 1980 and continued his education at Marquette University. Married his loving wife, Kathy Helmig on May 26, 1984, in Wood Dale, IL. He joined his dad at Acorn Fasteners that led to his entrepreneurial spirit by starting Heam Fasteners. Later he went to work for Remke Tablets and on to become the sole owner. John had a love for the fire department from a very young age. He got to pursue that love and joined the Marengo Fire Department. After many years there, John became Fire Marshal with the Union Fire Department. As you can see, John kept busy. As if that wasn’t enough, he was also Marengo Township Supervisor. He also plowed snow for the school district for years and helped as a tow truck driver for Karstens. John was a kind and generous man, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. He was a great friend to many. In his free time, he loved yelling at the TV during sporting events, the remote practically attached to him at all times. As a family man, John supported his kids in all their activities and life’s passions. Loved having his grandkids around and supplied all the sugar high before sending them home to Mom and Dad. He will be missed by so many. He is survived by his wife Kathy; his mother, Barbara Burns; a wonderful father to Heather Kesteleyn (Nate), Adler Burns (Jenna) and Noah Burns; papa John to Corynn, Cheyann, Chylnn, Calynnda, known to all as the Four C’s along with Emmie. John was big brother to Joan (Dan), Jim (Patricia), Jeanne (Bob) and uncle to all their wonderful kids. He us preceded in death by his father. Visitation to be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 10 AM to 12:45 PM at Marengo Fire Station #1, 120 Prairie St. A fire fighter walk-through will take place at 12:45 pm and the funeral service will follow. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be distributed to various charities.

John R. Burns

May 30, 1962 - October 15, 2023