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Merle E. Burns

Merle E. Burns, age 78, of Kittanning, PA., died Sunday, April 1, 2012 at VNA Inpatient Hospice in Butler, PA, surrounded by his family.

He was born on November 11, 1933 in Rayburn Twp., Armstrong Co., PA to Harvey M. and Elizabeth J. (Butz) Burns.

Merle was a lifetime resident of Kittanning and graduated from Kittanning High School in 1952. He previously worked for the former Valley Electric of Kittanning and was later employed as a lab technician for Castle Rubber of East Butler for 29 years until his retirement in November of 1995. Merle was a member of the Union Avenue Methodist Church. He married Ruth A. Otto on August 20, 1960, and she was truly his best friend. Merle and Ruth would frequently get in the car and, without a destination in mind, drive and see where they ended up. They both loved taking these day trips and had wonderful memories of their many adventures.

Merle enjoyed riding his bicycle and walking around Kittanning, and through these hobbies was known by many people in town. He also spent much time tending to his beautiful flower gardens. His family always came first and he loved being a grandfather. Those who knew Merle will always remember his friendly and caring nature, and he will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Ruth A. (Otto) Burns; daughter, Kelly Painter and husband, Bob, of Kittanning; son, Edwin Burns and wife, Megan, of Greensburg; grandchildren, Alex Painter, Aiden Burns and Bronwyn Burns; step grandson, Joe Painter and wife, Trista; step-great-grandson, Joey Painter; brother, Robert G. Burns and wife, Lucy, of Kittanning; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Harry E. Burns and Charles M. "Jim" Burns; and sisters, Mary Lou Smail and Isabelle Bowser.

Family and friends will be received from 2 - 4 and 7 - 9 PM on Tuesday, April 3, 2012 at the Bauer Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 515 North McKean Street, Kittanning, PA, where a blessing service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, April 4, 2012 with Rev. Daniel Blout officiating.

Interment will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in Rayburn Twp., Armstrong Co., PA.

Memorial contributions may be made in Merle's honor VNA Inpatient Hospice, 115 Technology Dr., Butler, PA 16001 or the Kittanning Public Library, 280 N. Jefferson St., Kittanning, PA 16201.
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