WORCESTER: Gerald Lent Burns, Sr, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 8, 2022, surrounded by the people he loved best.

He is survived by his loving partner in life and adventure, Maureen Ambach, and her children and grandchildren, by his sons Gerald Jr, Trevor, and Brendan, by his daughters-in-law Loree, Gina, and Jenny, by his former wife Trisha, by seven grandchildren who adored him (Francesca, Samuel, Benjamin, Catherine, Anthony, Cassidy, and Caedan), by beloved nieces and nephews, and by devoted friends from every part of his full and active life.

Gerry was predeceased by his parents John Henry and Beatrice (Miller) Burns of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts and by his two brothers John “Jack” and Robert “Bob” Burns; this first family was never far from his mind.

Gerry served in the U.S. Air Force, owned a restaurant, taught at Johnson & Wales University, and at Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School, the latter for more than 25 years. He was a lifelong athlete, starting with a Hall of Fame football and track career at Shrewsbury High School (Class of 1961); he was a runner and a cyclist; in later years he played pool, pickleball and bocce as often as he could. He restored old cars and was out touring in his 1939 Ford Coupe just this past weekend. He spent fifteen years migrating to Florida for the winter, usually with his lifelong friend Norm. He loved and was loved. He will be missed beyond measure. His family will forever be grateful he was theirs.

Calling hours will be held at Roney Funeral Home,152 Worcester St. N. Grafton, MA 015356 on Tuesday, November 15 from 3-6 pm. A private burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, friends and family are invited to honor Gerry’s life and memory with a donation to Veteran’s Inc, 69 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605.