Donald Stephen Burian

Born on July 15, 1946, in Chicago, Ill, he attended Lane Tech High School and graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago. He served in the U.S. Navy as a Second Lieutenant on the aircraft carrier USS Independence.

In 1973, Don and his family moved to Ann Arbor, where he worked as a human resources manager and administrator for the EPA Motor Vehicle Emissions Lab. After his tenure at the EPA, he provided consulting services in HR. Post retirement he volunteered at the University of Michigan’s Kelsey Museum of Archeology, where he was able to immerse himself in the study of archeology – a field he had been passionate about since childhood. For 25 years he served as a docent and helped with the evaluation of artifacts.

Raised in a family that cherished strong relationships, Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His life was centered around his family, whom he loved deeply. He instilled in them an appreciation for music, theater, and culture. Don’s legacy is one of unwavering love, infectious laughter, and genuine kindness.

Don is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Norris; children, Laura, Stephen, and Jeremy; grandchildren, Jerry Knack and Emily Knack; and great-grandson, Vincint West. He was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Stasierowski; and parents, Ann Elizabeth (Betty) and Joseph Sebastian Burian.

Don’s legacy of love, laughter and kindness will live on in those fortunate enough to have known him. May he rest in eternal peace, embraced by the love and joy he shared so generously.

Memorial Donations: In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Arbor Hospice, Integrative Therapies. Donations can be made online at www.arborhospice.org/donate.

Services

Visitation: Friends and family are invited to Muehlig Funeral Chapel, 403 S 4th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI, on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

Funeral Mass: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2250 E Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI, on Thursday at 12:00 Noon. Visitation at the church begins at 11:30 AM.

Burial: Forest Hill Cemetery, 415 Observatory St, Ann Arbor, MI, immediately following the Mass.

Don's family thanks everyone for their love and support during this time.