Daniel F. Burns

Daniel F. Burns, 72, of Brockton, Massachusetts, passed away suddenly August 27, 2026.

Born and raised in Central Falls, Rhode Island, he was the son of the late Francis L. and Lucille (Tondreau) Burns.

Dan carried forward a proud family tradition of military service, serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he earned numerous commendations and steadily rose through the ranks to become a Gunnery Sergeant. He successfully completed the demanding Drill Instructor School at Parris Island and also served in postings around the world before retiring in 1993. In the years that followed, he held various civilian jobs and made his home in Maine for a time. Larger than life, Dan had a gift for making people laugh and a genuine passion for woodcarving, carpentry, home repair and improvement, reading, history, politics, and research. He also loved music. He was a big rock and roll fan, and he especially loved AC/DC, the Allman Brothers, The Who, and Jethro Tull.

Dan was the beloved, longtime partner of Cheryl Reidy of Brockton. He is also survived by his loving son, Daniel R. Burns of Chepachet, Rhode Island, and his sister, Joanne Barrette of Maine.

Private services. 

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