Walter F. Burns, Sr., 87, of 21 Orne St., died peacefully at home on Sunday, December 20, 2009, after a long illness. His beloved wife of 51 years, Jean R. (Johnson) Burns, died July 29, 1997. He leaves five children, Caren J. Silverburg and her husband Paul of Clayton, North Carolina, Sharen J. Burns of Pawtucket, RI, Walter F. "Bumper" Burns, Jr. and his wife Susan of Worcester, Margaret A. Gibson and her husband William of Kansas City, KS, Robert F. Burns and his wife Kathleen, who Walter lived with for the last 12 years; his beloved younger sister, June David of Lancaster; 14 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. His daughter Heather Lee Burns and his son, Kevin J. Burns, both predeceased him. He was born in Worcester, son of the late Robert H. and Altie M. (Swett) Burns and was a graduate of South High School. He was an Army Veteran of World War II. He was awarded a Purple Heart with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, a Bronze Star with a V for valor, and rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Walter was Assistant Postmaster and Sectional Director of Mail Processing for the U. S. Postal Service in Worcester where he worked for 36 years, until he retired in 1980. He was a member and Past President of the National Association of Postal Supervisors Branch 6, Past Commander of American Legion Post No. 445, and a long time member of Trinity Lutheran Church. He most enjoyed spending time with his loving family.

A FUNERAL SERVICE in CELEBRATION of Walter's life will be held at 11 a.m. on WEDNESDAY, Dec. 23 in TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 73 Lancaster St. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. There are no calling hours.

The family suggests donations in memory of Walter be made to the Good Samaritan Fund, Trinity Lutheran Church, 73 Lancaster, St., Worcester, MA 01609. KELLY FUNERAL HOME, 154 Lincoln St., is assisting the family. Condolence messages may sent to the family on-line at

www.kellyfuneralhome.com