Oct 17, 1956---Dec 25, 2024

 Brian E. Burns, 68, of Lenexa, KS, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on December 25, 2024.

 Brian was born on October 17, 1956, to Betty (Wright) and Leo Burns. He was a sweet and spirited child who loved to spend time with his many cousins with Jodie (Burns) Barnes being his first best friend. At the age of ten, Brian was excited to become a big brother to Julie Minzey (Snook).

 Brian graduated from Shawnee Mission North in 1975. Afterward, he attended Johson County Community College, studying business. He started working at APA Auto Parts during his high school years and knew from the beginning it was the industry he wanted to dedicate his professional life to. He was a well-respected, hardworking professional becoming a manager and owner. This love for the automotive industry was shown in the many classic American muscle cars he owned throughout his life.

 In July 1973, Brian met the love of his life, Jody Schneider  (1975 Shawnee Mission Northwest graduate). They were high school sweethearts and married on July 30, 1977, at Merriam Christian Church; the same church where Brian was baptized. 

 In 1983, Brian was ecstatic to become a father when his daughter Sabrie (Brie) Burns was born, and again when he welcomed his son, Ryan Burns, in 1987. He was over the moon and fully embraced his role as a loving and patient father. Teaching them both many life skills.

Brian was thrilled when Christina Harms joined our family when she and Ryan married in 2013.

In 2017, Brian could barely contain his happiness when he became a granddad when Paisley was born. And overjoyed when his grandson, Callen was born in 2019.

He was grateful that his children and grandchildren lived nearby so that they were able to visit him often. When his grandbabies would visit, Granddad always had a little treat ready for them.

Brian enjoyed playing baseball with his family, water skiing, and boating, particularly when he and Jody had a second home at the Lake of the Ozarks. He also liked to snow ski and do woodworking projects. He was very handy and made sure to teach his children these skills any chance he got. Brian’s favorite pastime was hunting with his son, friends, and nephews along with his beloved German Shorthaired Pointers.  

 Brian was preceded in death by his father, Leo,  mother Betty Minzey, stepfather Frank Minzey. He is survived by his wife Jody, daughter Sabrie, son Ryan, daughter-in-law Christina, granddaughter Paisley, grandson Callen, sister Julie Minzey Snook (Tim), and stepmother Glenda Burns.

He will be missed by a multitude of friends, cousins, and family members.

Memorial services will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025 at the Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, KS with the visitation to follow the service.

 

 



Condolences

Sonia Hembree Dec 30, 2024

Best friend ,Linn Valley ,Kansas

We have so many wonderful memories! Brian was so fun(he was a redhead you know)Never a dull moment! He and Brad snow skied together among many adventures. They enjoyed the lake a lot! Watered skied, fished and boat riding. Jody the mostess hostess!!! Baseball team, they were good, better than good!!! Enjoyed their time together!!! Such memories we will cherish. We love you, Brian Burns and will meet up with you again. With love, Brad & Sonia Hembree

Bobbi Miles Dec 30, 2024

Neighbor at Blue Anchor ,Sarasota ,Florida

I will always be thankful for having the opportunity to have the best neighbors ever. The love this couple always showed for each other spilled over to all their family and friends. No couple exemplified true love better. What fond memories he provided for anyone who knew him. He was quite natured, yet his kind heart and love for his wife, family and friends spoke volumes. Andy fine man who lived life well. My deepest condolences for his wife, children, grandkids and all whose lives he touched.

Nancy Caldwell Dec 30, 2024

friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Jody, My heart goes out to you and your family as I am extremely sorry for your loss. I have the most wonderful memories of working with Brian and fun times on APA trips and visiting at the lake. My prayers are with you and I send love and hugs. Nancy

Missy Ralston Dec 30, 2024

Friend ,Shawnee ,Kansas

Jody & family, my thoughts & prayers are with you & your many friends.

Mike and Laurie jansen Dec 30, 2024

Friend to Brian and Tina ,Overland Park ,Kansas

We are so very sorry your loss

Steve Carrington Jan 02, 2025

Classmate ,Shawnee ,Kansas

I met Brian in jr.high and and ran around with him some in high school. I remember the light green 67 mustang he got from his mom that was like new and cruising around in it. We had some classes together but after h.s. everyone goes their own way and you kind of lose track of old friends. He was a very fine fellow. My Condolences to his love ones. Steve

Don pflumm Jan 03, 2025

Friend ,Shawnee ,Kansas

Jody and kids I’m so sorry. Brian was great. He leaves with only friends as no one didn’t just love him. Those poker games at APA he held court over were epic. Everything with him was epic. RIP Brian.

Steve Nettles Jan 05, 2025

Friend ,Shawnee ,Kansas

Jody, Sorry to hear this news. Unfortunately we will miss the funeral as we are traveling on that day. Our condolences. Steve and Barbara Nettles

Doug Overall Jan 10, 2025

Chaplain ,Overland Park ,Kansas

What a beautiful tribute to Brian. Sabrie and Ryan your love, reverence and grace was articulated and moving. And what a precious song, The Old Man. The words could not be more perfect to match your life' memories until you are reunited. Gratitude.

Services

Event:
Memorial Service
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
8535 Monrovia Street
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date:
Jan 10, 2025
Time:
3:00 PM
Google Map:
Event:
Visitation
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
8535 Monrovia Street
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date:
Jan 10, 2025
Time:
3:30 PM
Google Map: