Robert Emmett Burns, 76, of North Carolina died Sunday, April 5, 2009.

Mr. Burns was born in Alpena, Michigan to Mr. and Mrs. Ralph I. Burns. He served in Korea and married Shirley Ann Vredenburg in 1954. Together they lived in Puerto Rico for 17 years before retiring from Westinghouse and moving to Asheville.

He was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church and was a dedicated volunteer for Meals on Wheels and the Asheville Police Dept.

Surviving is his son, Matthew Burns of Asheville.

Preceding him in death are his wife of 53 years, Shirley; son, Timothy; and daughter, Susan.

Friends may call at the Bannan Funeral Home on Wednesday from 1:30 p.m. until time of memorial service at 2 p.m. with Rev. Douglas McCormick officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels, 146 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801.