John Burns, 1944-2008

[JaneYoung]

It's taken me a little while to process this. I met Mr. Burns at the Kick Off in Manchester this year. I was at the NEMO table with KathieK and Jack Kentfield when this cheery smiling man approached and they all started talking to each other and teasing each other. Somewhere in there, John and I were introduced and he set off on a glorious tale of FIRST, FIRSTers, students, and the regionals he dearly loved - and - the region he loved. His neck of the woods. He was so proud of it. For about 15 minutes, he was convinced that he had succeeded in convincing me to come out and go ski-ing next year, even though I had told him I've never even tried to ski. He wasn't worried about it, saying - 'come out, we'll take care of everything.' He shook my hand as he left and told me that he would be expecting me. A force of nature, that one.

Peace to all of you.
Jane

[Jessica Boucher]

John was a good-hearted man who cared deeply for his team, Agawam schools, and FIRST as a whole. It was always a delight to see him, and he will be missed.

Condolences from Team 40 and the crew up at intelitek.

[Mr MOE]

I did not know John, but on behalf of MOE 365, we mourn the loss of a great FIRST mentor.

John's FIRST and non-FIRST families are in our prayers.