James "Mike" Michael Burns

James Michael “Mike” Burns, of Independence, MO peacefully went home to be with his Lord on Wednesday evening, September 29th, 2021. He was 72.

A visitation will be held from 6-8 pm on Thursday, October 7th with a funeral service on Friday, October 8th at 10:00 am, both at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E 39th Street, Independence, MO 64055. Internment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Raytown, MO with a gathering of friends and family to follow.
Mike was born on August 26, 1949, in Kansas City, MO to James C. and Georgia M. (Richards) Burns. He graduated from Center High School in 1967. Later, he was a student in trade education at Metropolitan Community College, learning tool and dye.

In 1973, Mike and Micki met in the Kansas City area and have been married for 47 cherished years. He was a family man, loving his wife and treasured daughter and together they went on numerous trips, attended countless activities, competitions, and many memorable events.

As a tool and dye maker, he worked at Kenworth and then Parmelee Industries both in Kansas City, MO for a period. Then in 1986, Mike began work in tool and dye and maintenance of machines for General Motors at the Fairfax Kansas plant. He enjoyed a successful career in the automotive industry with GM, retiring after more than 34 years. He was a member of the UAW Local #31 and a member of Journey Church KC in Liberty, MO. Mike loved fixing anything that was broken. Fishing on his family’s farm with his daughter and wife was one of his favorite pastimes. In addition, he looked forward to hunting during deer season each year on the farm. Mike enjoyed woodworking and sold several of his projects. He has also owned boats throughout the years and took his family out for boating trips. Win or lose, he was a Chiefs fan. He was also thoughtful and giving and loved his Savior and Lord. Mike will be dearly loved and deeply missed.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his beloved wife, Micki; his cherished daughter, Kinsey Burns; his four siblings, George “Corky” Burns; Linda Couch; Carol Burns; and Jerry (Kim) Burns; nieces and nephews, Tonya (Eugene) Couch-Fournier; Jim (Cameron) Burns; Genie (Bobby) Burns-Richardson; Bobby Couch; and Billy Couch as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600)