Mark William Burns ... retired from Textron

ROCHESTER - On Thursday November 14th, 2019 Mark William Burns, loving father and husband died at the age of 65. Mark was born in Melrose, Mass., February 24, 1954 to Jean and William Burns. After graduating from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst he moved to New Hampshire and began a career at Textron.

Mark was a loving and devoted father who would do anything for his children. He spent endless hours with his son Nathan, indulging in their shared love of sci-fi movies and playing video games. He was always at his daughter Laurel's softball games, pacing on the sidelines and doling out encouraging words. After retirement, he would stop in for his daily visit at the Remember When Diner to see all his favorite people. He enjoyed any and all New England sporting events, whether watching from home or attending with friends and family. He could be found in the Green Monster seats at Fenway, hiking the ramps at Gillette with his best friend Gary, or in a box at the Garden always being seen in the appropriate gear with a smile on his face (and a cuss word on his lips). When watching at home he would fervently text his daughter about whatever play, good or bad, was happening in whichever game was airing.

Mr. Burns also enjoyed traveling. He was often seen locally on day trips around New England with his wife and loved visiting his daughter in Nashville to expand his culinary chops, to take in a hockey game, and explore the Natchez Trace. He recently embarked on a trip to Disney with his wife, step children and their families.

Mark was well-known for his quick wit, ice blue eyes, compassionate nature and big heart. He was always there to lend a helping hand if needed. He was never shy about telling people he cared for them and knew quite well that love was returned. In his final days he was fortunate to be surrounded by his loving family and friends. He will be greatly missed by any and all who knew him.

He was predeceased by his son Nathan A. Burns, his father William F. Burns, his mother Jean Burns (nee McPartland), his sister Carol A. Crowell, and his brother John C. Burns. He leaves behind his daughter Laurel (her mother Deborah), his wife of six years Priscilla, his stepson Rene St. Pierre and wife Brianne, his stepdaughter Amy St. Pierre, his brother Paul and wife Diane, his sister Martha Price as well as many nieces and nephews, their spouses and children,and eleven grandchildren, all of which he loved and cherished.