Wendell Burns

Jun 8, 1926 -

Jan 11, 2021

"An honest man here lies at rest, As e'er God with His image blest: The friend of man, the friend of truth; The friend of age, and guide of youth; Few hearts like his, with virtue warm'd Few heads with knowledge so inform'd: If there's another world, he lives in bliss; If there is none, he made the best of this."

Epitaph of my own Friend by Robert Burns

Wendell Robert Burns left this world on Jan. 11, 2021. He was an extraordinary man and will be remembered always for his love, wisdom, honesty and kindness.

Wendell was born on June 8, 1926, in Brookston, Pa. He was the first child of Gladys Marie (Carlson) Burns and Arthur "Archie" Robert Burns. He attended 1st-8th grades in the small village schoolhouse, graduating from Sheffield High School in 1944.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army the day he graduated and, as he told it, "My rich Uncle sent me to Europe on the Queen Mary and everything was going real good, until they put a gun in my hand!" He was an infantry sharpshooter, stationed in northern Germany at the end of World War II.

Wendell was an adventurer who jumped at the chance to work for the CAA (FAA) in the wilds of Alaska. He traveled up the Alcan Highway in 1951 and fell in love with The Great Land. He became a traveling maintenance mechanic at FAA stations across the state for 30 years.

After marrying his beloved Betty in 1956, he brought her, Dixie and Debbie up the Alcan, to reside in Anchorage. His youngest daughter, Cecile, was born in 1957, to complete their family.

Wendell and Betty spent many winters seeing America in their RVs after retiring, but always came home for the northern summers. When Betty passed away, Dad continued to visit Arizona, until the trip became too difficult.

Because of the onset of dementia, he moved into the Chugiak-Eagle River Senior Center. There he found a safe place to live, socialize - and entertain. The assisted living facility took wonderful care of him for 4 1/2 years, welcoming the whole family.

Wendell was predeceased by his parents, Archie and Marie; his wife, Betty; and many dear friends and family. Those left to honor him are daughters, Dixie (Brian) Gillespie, Debbie (Robert) McCree, Cecile (Mark) Sherlock; grandchildren, Stephanie (Ryan) Conger, Corey (Kerry) Gillespie, MacKenzie (Dan) Burlingham, Misty (Marcquis) Pulliam, Austin and Tyler Judevine; great-grandchildren, Lucy, Jack, Zooey, Max, Penelope, RaShae and Cassius. He is also survived by his much-loved brothers, Larry (Mary) Burns, Fred (Lewellyn) Burns; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

The family would like to send our heartfelt thanks to the loving staff at the Senior Center - particularly his special angels Laura and Heidi. Also, our thanks to Megan Engler Engeberg PA-C for her incredible medical care, the Chugiak Volunteer Fire Department for their valued assistance and to Frontier Hospice for their compassion and guidance, especially Nurse Brooke.

There will be no memorial at this time. We hope to celebrate Wendell's life when we're able to all meet again, safely. Those wishing to donate in his name can choose their favorite charity. Condolences can be left for the family at www.alaskacremation.com.