James 'Jim' Burns, 90

April 11, 1934 — Nov. 28, 2024

Jim Burns passed peacefully on Thanksgiving, his favorite holiday. At 90 years young, he was a man of quiet integrity whose love for family shaped every chapter of his life. That night, surrounded by loved ones and music, the sun set in brilliant color, and it felt as if the heavens opened to welcome him home.

Born and raised in Idaho, Jim grew up during the Great Depression, where hard work and resilience became second nature. He graduated from Coeur d'Alene High School in 1953 and married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Murphy, on Valentine's Day 1954. Together, they raised five children and built their lakeside home from the ground up. In 1963, he graduated with honors from Whitworth College, a proud achievement. The Burns' Kidd Island Bay home became a gathering place for family and friends, creating memories to last a lifetime. Camp Dis-il-do was founded in 1986 and remains a beloved family tradition.

Jim was the anchor of his family — a steady, unwavering foundation they could always count on. He had a long and successful career in advertising and finance, retiring in 2002. He was a master carpenter, a car enthusiast and proud of his Scottish heritage. He believed in quiet generosity, offering help without recognition and always preserving others' dignity.

When Barb passed away, it took Jim time to find his new path. He dove into his love of classic cars and restored a 1968 Firebird with his son, Rob.

At the prompting of his mother, he found companionship again with Shirley Belstad. She brought laughter back into his life and became part of the family. He often said, with a twinkle in his eye, "Between the two of us, we're as good as one."

Jim's legacy lives on through his children, Laurie Page (Dave), Shannon Rozett, Colleen Hodgson (Byron) and Rob Burns, as well as his 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; his parents, James Burns and Donna Plumb; his sister, Anna Mae Beckner; his brother, Roy Burns; and his son, Sean Ryan Burns.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the amazing doctors, nurses, and caregivers whose kindness and dedication made all the difference.

Celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 5, 2025, 11 a.m. at The Hub — Post Falls, 4081 W. Riverbend Ave., Post Falls, ID 83854. (Located in the Post Falls Factory Store)

Lunch and gathering to follow.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Jim's deep love of children, please consider a donation in his name to a Children's Hospital of your choice.