

Steve was lovingly raised by his grandparents, Stan “Papa” Burns and Wanda Burns. His grandfather, Papa, predeceased him.
Steve became a firefighter as soon as he was eligible. He proudly served with the Wolcott, Gales Ferry, and North Stonington, CT Fire Departments. At the time of his passing, he was actively working toward a nursing degree.
An avid reader, Steve especially loved history and his beloved New York Yankees. His passion for sports was shared with his grandfather, Papa, and his father, Merton “Mert” Burns. As a child, Steve learned the art and finesse of golf from Papa, while he and Mert bonded over baseball and football.
Papa’s famous Fourth of July pig roast brought the family together to share food, love, and stories. Steve carried on this tradition with holiday dinners and campouts in Washington, surrounded by friends and family.
Steve also had a passion for cooking and earned a degree in Culinary Arts. He worked in many kitchens, though his greatest joy came from preparing meals for family gatherings and campouts. Family was at the center of his life, and one of the ways he expressed his love was through sharing meals and time together.
Steve is survived by his wife of 16 years, Kimberly (née Smith), and their two sons, Wyatt and Gabriel, along with his father, Mert. Together, they discovered the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, exploring its mountains, rainforests, oceans, and national parks. Steve especially loved taking his boys on weekly nature hikes, teaching them to respect and appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
A devoted husband and father, Steve played an active role in his children’s education. In Connecticut, he served as head of the PTO and attended Wyatt’s soccer games. After moving to Washington, he homeschooled both boys with dedication and care.
Steve also had a great love for animals. He and his family fostered dogs, and he cherished the companionship of his own pets Willow, Hopson, and Athena; who will miss his affection dearly, as will everyone who knew him.
In recent years, Steve worked for the North Mason School District, where he was valued for his hard work, wit, and charm. His colleagues will remember him with deep admiration.
Steve will be deeply missed by his wife, Kimberly Burns; sons, Wyatt and Gabriel Burns; father, Merton Burns; aunt, Robin Decosmo; grandmother, Doris Bachand; aunt, Caroline Bachand; aunt, Cynthia Dinneen; parents-in-law, Carl and Kathy Smith; sisters and brothers-in-law, Maurine and Cole Simons, Randy Smith, Robert Smith, Michelle Shafer, and Alex Smith; and his mother- and father-in-law, Roxy Lavigne and Harvey Kulin. His nieces and nephews Jeremiah, Jesse, Scarlett, Henry, and Roxanna; were especially close to him and will forever hold him in their hearts. Steve was there for his family in countless ways, both big and small.
A celebration of Steve’s life will be held on September 13th, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to North Mason Regional Fire Authority. PO Box 277, Belfair, WA 98528
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