Michael E. Burns

Mike Burns, 72, passed away March 1, 2026, at Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne.

Mike was born July 8, 1953, the third child of Carmelrose and Joseph Burns of Sioux City, Iowa. He grew up in Sioux City and graduated from Heelan High School in 1972.

From an early age, Mike loved everything with wheels. He had a natural gift for understanding how things worked, and he spent his early years repairing our bicycles, lawnmowers, tractors and anything with an engine. His skill and ability to repair engines continued throughout his life. He not only found repairing engines challenging, but he loved helping people. He recently repaired a neighbors’ ATV and revived abandoned tractors after others had said they were beyond repair.

Mike’s skills provided him with many employment opportunities. Some of his jobs included typewriter repair technician for Olivetti, mechanic, truck driver, as well as certified nurse’s assistant.

Mike greatly enjoyed his time at a secluded cabin in Colorado where he escaped the stresses of everyday life and found peace, rest and good company. Mike also enjoyed handicrafts, baking, fishing, camping and helping all his family and friends.

Survivors include his siblings; Patrick (Karen) of Hendersonville, NC, Kathleen Parks (Jim) of Rogers, AR, James Burns of Cheyenne and Margaret Botkins of Cheyenne; his children Rachael Wise (John), Joe Burns, Joe Hensley (Grace), three grandchildren Maddi, Jack (Katie) and Thomas, along with several nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife Lana.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date,