Robert W. Burns

Robert W. Burns (83), of Deerfield Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends.

Robert (Bob) was born to Gwendolyn Lewis Burns, on August 14, 1940, in Elmira, N.Y. He was graciously raised by Dorothy (Gwendolyn's sister) and Leo Dickson after the passing of his mother.

In his early days, he worked on the family farm, Leo Dickson & Sons. Upon graduation from Haverling High School in Bath, NY, he entered the Navy in 1958 where he proudly served 4 years. He continued to protect and serve when he joined the New York State Police (1962) as a uniformed Trooper. He spent most of his uniformed time in the Troop E post in Canandaigua, NY. He served as Counselor at the NYSP Academy and upon return to Canandaigua in 1973 was promoted to Investigator in the Bureau of Investigation (BCI) where he obtained his permanent rank of Sergeant. Bob retired in 1986 after 24 years of service.

He was known as "Burnsie" and was well known throughout the Division of New York State Police, as once you met him you knew he always had your back, and he let you know what his expectations were of you. Upon retirement from the New York State Police, he moved to Florida, with his wife Jean, and worked for the Florida State's Attorney's Office until retiring in 1998.

Bob is survived by his five children; Ronald (Elke) Zito of Nolanville, TX, Wendy (Graham) Simpson of Virginia Beach, VA, Brett (Connie) Zito of Macedon, NY, Robin (David) Gabel of Silver Creek, NY, and Wendy (Michael) Dempsey of Shelby Township, MI. He is also survived by his eleven grandchildren, Shawn Zito, Jack Pfohl, Carly & Brooke Simpson, Antonio & Elena Zito, Jordan & Jenna Gabel and Dylan, Ryan & Brendan Dempsey, along with other family members.

Bob was predeceased by his wife Jean Burns, mother Gwendolyn Lewis Burns, aunt Dorothy Dickson, uncle Leo Dickson, sisters Patricia Margeson & Sandra Newman; cousins, Larry Dickson & Sharon Squire.

Bob was passionate about Notre Dame football and the NY Yankees, and shared this love with all of his grandchildren. His heart was centered around his family. Caring for and guiding his children, grandchildren and friends was his primary goal. His network of friendships was apparent by the continual outreach of support during his long battle with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and Squamous Cell cancer. If he needed anything his family and friends were there to return the favor of is unwavering support of them.

Visitation will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals on Wednesday, February 14 from 4pm – 7pm. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 15 at 10am at St. Rose of Lima Church, 407 S. Main St., N. Syracuse NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society in Bob's name.

To leave a message of condolence for Bob's family, or to share a special memory of Bob, visit the guestbook below.