Matthew Joseph "Joe" Burns

Matthew Joseph Burns

May 18, 1953 – January 12, 2024

Canton, Ohio

Matthew "Joe" Burns, 70, passed from this earth to his heavenly home on Friday, January 12, 2024, after a brief battle with cancer. He was in his home, surrounded by his loving family when he entered into the presence of his Lord and Savoir, Jesus Christ.

Joe was born and raised in Canton, OH, where he grew up with his parents and three brothers. He retired from United Rolls in 2023 after a 49-year career with the company. He was a faithful follower of God and well-known for his patience, loyalty, hard-work, and selflessness. He lived his life in service to others by using the gifts that God entrusted within him.

Aside from his faith, family and friends were the most important thing to him. His biggest joys were his 3 grandchildren: Madelyn, Everett, and Alden Leeders. He enjoyed making quarter bets, watching ball games, annually attending Indy 500 qualifications, and finding good deals on everything from toothpaste and toilet paper to used cars. Some of his most treasured memories included driving a retired Jimmy Johnson Nascar at the speed of 152.86 MPH and getting to fly both a plane and a helicopter. Joe made friends (and got countless discounts) just by flashing his trademark grin. He was a problem-solver, fixer and the person everyone called on for help and guidance. His patience, kindness, and knowledge will live on through his legacy in the hearts and minds of those he impacted.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents; Matthew (Joe) and Geraldine (Geri) Burns; his brother, Ted Burns and a few very dear friends. Joe is survived by his loving wife, Paula, of 46 years, whom he married on December 10, 1977; daughters: Amanda Burns (Matthew Jones) and Melinda (Derek) Leeders who brought him the sons he always dreamed of having; grandchildren: Madelyn, Everett, and Alden Leeders; siblings: Timothy (Kimberly) Burns, Patrick (Andrea) Burns, Patty Burns, and Keith (Pam) Kell; along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Thursday, January 18, 2024 from 5-7pm at Lamiell Funeral Home: 1353 Cleveland Ave. N.W., Canton, Ohio 44703. Funeral will be held Friday, January 19, 2024 at 10am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church: 2427 Tuscarawas St. W., Canton, Ohio 44708. Interment will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery, Canton.

"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him."

- James 1:12

"But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons and daughters of the Most High."

- Luke 6:35