Burns, Roland David

Roland David Burns, age 68, of Waupaca, WI passed away suddenly on Wednesday, August 9, 2023

at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center- Appleton.

Roland was born in Waupaca on February 9th, 1955, the son of late Ronald and Billie (Myrick) Burns. Oddly enough, his birth certificate falsely stated his birth date as February 15, 1955, so Rolie liked to tell people that just meant he had to party the whole week! Rolie lived and worked around the Waupaca area his whole life, and had many friends and business acquaintances. He was a people person and loved to strike up conversations whenever possible. Rolie worked as a self-employed painter most of his adult life and was highly regarded in the community for his craftsmanship. He enjoyed his career because it afforded him flexibility, control, and creativity, but most importantly, the opportunity to meet new people all the time. He started “Burns and Sons Painting” when his sons, Josh and Eric, were old enough to work alongside him. Rolie was also passionate about his extra curricular activities. Earlier in life, he was an avid hunter and fisherman, competing in many local tournaments and always ready for the next approaching season. Throughout his life, Rolie played competitive darts, pool and horse shoes with various local clubs and teammates. He made many friends that he considered family through these activities. Additionally, Rolie has always been passionate about gardening alongside his wife, Marg, to whom he had been married to for nearly 48 years. In the last few months of his life, his frustrations were mostly heard through his inability to harvest his garlic crop. Do not worry, his dutiful family helped him out with it. Rolie enjoyed various types of music, especially anything he could see live. Some of his other favorites included playing sheepshead and cribbage with family, drinking good coffee and dark beer, and getting up early to catch the first birds at the feeder.

Roland is survived by: his wife Margaret (Raymond) Burns, Waupaca, and his children: Joshua (Nora Tompkins) Burns, Stevens Point, Amber (Shane Stoner) Burns, Germany; grandchildren: Bryce Burns, New London, Maria Burns, New London, Althea Tompkins, Stevens Point, Isla Tompkins, Stevens Point, Oren Burns, Stevens Point, Ira Stoner, Germany; his siblings: Robin (Mary) Burns, Waupaca, Rebel (John) Marsi, Bodega, CA. He is also survived by numerous other loving family and friends. Roland was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Raymie Burns and Randy Burns, as well as his son, Eric Burns. His easy going spirit will be greatly missed by many.

A Celebration of Rolie’s life will be held sometime in September with details to come. The Holly Funeral Home in Waupaca is assisting the family with arrangements.