William David Burns

William David Burns, 94, of Chicago, Ill., passed away on April 11, 2017, due to natural causes at his Marina Tower’s home.

A small memorial luncheon will be held in the summer to celebrate David’s life. Those wishing to attend the luncheon may keep in contact with Luis M. Romero via e-mail at lmr197777@gmail.com.  He will send out details regarding the luncheon once a date is determined.

David was born in Cameron, Texas, on March 12, 1923. He graduated from Austin High School and went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism at the University of Texas in Austin in 1947. David attended Columbia University, as well, in pursuit of his Master’s Degree. David went on to serve in the Army Air Force and was stationed in Chicago, Ill., as an Air Traffic Controller.

David began his career with Campbell Mithun Advertising Agency. Soon thereafter, he then took his entrepreneurial mindset to McCann Erickson Chicago as an Account Executive. Following his time at McCann, David took on the role of Account Supervisor at Allen & Paley. All his friends laughed and tried to stop him from quitting a premiere job but there was no stopping David Burns. In 1970, David founded Burns Sports Celebrity Service, Inc. (currently Burns Entertainment in Evanston, IL) as a brand agent. He was the pioneer in this role, the very first. David had pure passion for living that role each and every day. David enjoyed the arts, particularly theater and opera, as well as the Chicago Cubs.

David is survived by his dear friend and caregiver Luis M. Romero of Chicago, Ill. Luis cared for David for many years and was the reason David was able spend is final days in his home as he wished. David is also survived by several nieces and nephews including Robert (Bob) Burns of Carrollton, Bill Burns of Frisco, Pat Burns of Mustang, Christi Hawley of Celina, Hallie Eads Burns of Houston, William Burns of Austin, and John S. Burns Jr. of Austin; as well as other family and friends.

David is preceded in death by his father Simon Maxwell and mother Beulah (Dobbins) Burns.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to Rainbow Hospice, 1550 Bishop Court, Mount Prospect, IL 60056.  The family of William David Burns wishes to thank the individuals that assisted in caring for David during his final days.