ForeverMissed
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Retired Army Lt. Col. Timothy John Burns, 60, of Aiea, Hawaii, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with brain cancer on November 16, 2013. He was born in Deer Lodge, Montana, on August 2, 1953, and raised by parents, Frank and Guinevere Burns.

Burns retired from the US Army Reserves in September of 2011, with over 30 years of military service. He proudly served five overseas tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. As a Counter-Intelligence Officer, he was acknowledged for his integral support in the capture of high-value individuals and the security and stabilization of Iraq’s infrastructure. A lifelong scholar, Burns continuously pursued advanced education. He earned a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from the University of La Verne, and had nearly completed his Clinical Psychology Doctorate from Capella University. He was passionate about helping people, and throughout his career as a psychologist, he specialized in the treatment of substance abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder. He was employed at Tripler Army Medical Center as a Federal Master Level Psychologist in the Addiction Recovery Ward for over 15 years. As the Army’s Suicide Prevention Program Lead, he created and managed numerous health promotion and suicide prevention initiatives. One of his most notable contributions was a major revision and final publication of the Suicide Prevention Action Plan for the Army in 2011.

Burns was an avid outdoorsman, marksman, bodybuilder, and motorcycle enthusiast. He was also a proud Eagle Scout and Taekwondo Black Belt. He left behind a legacy built on integrity, loyalty, patriotism for his country and love for his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Guinevere Burns. He is survived by his beloved wife of 23 years, Kimberly Burns; daughter and son-in-law, Samantha and Phillip; son and daughter-in-law, Sebastian and Mailani; grandchildren, Kainoa Timothy, Keanu, and Kaleo; sister and partner, Colleen Wilson and Jim Long; sister, Kathy Hill; and lifelong friend, Leo Winburn. Services were held at the National Memorial Cemetery-Pacific on November 21, 2013,  followed by a reception at the Hale Koa Hotel.


한국어 번역본   (Korean Translation)


November 16, 2023
November 16, 2023
Today marks 10 years without my incredible dad. A respected military officer, a Taekwondo master and gym nut, a psychologist and guiding light for patients struggling with mental health, an outdoorsman and survivalist, a marksman and gun collector, a too-cool-for-school motorcycle driver... He was a man of many talents but, above all, an extraordinary father, family man, serviceman, teacher, and leader.

As I navigate through life, now almost 40 and a father of three wonderful boys, I often reflect on the lessons he imparted. I remember his patience, which seemed as vast as the ocean compared to my own, his humor and fun loving nature that always brightened our days, his unwavering integrity and sense of duty, and the wisdom that he shared so tactfully. These are all qualities I strive to emulate in my own life, though never quite as well as he did in his.

My sons are too young to have known him, but they do have a bit of an idea of who he was, and carry on small pieces of his legacy as passed through me. They practice Taekwondo weekly, though not quite as passionately as he did, and do enjoy the occasional outdoor adventure, which I hope to expand upon, as a tribute to his love for nature that he shared with us.

Dad, your legacy lives on through us. You set an an incredible standard for us to aspire to. Your spirit guides me as I try to be the best father to my boys, just as you were for me and Samantha. Your memory is a beacon of light in our lives... full of love, optimism, compassion, empathy, wisdom, respect, and selflessness.

We miss you every day... your love, laughter-filled memories, passion for life, and hard-earned lessons continue to inspire and guide us. Here's to you, the best dad I could have ever asked for.
November 28, 2022
November 28, 2022
I recently visited this site. I didn't even come to the anniversary.
Thinking back on the past, I was immersed in memories for a while.
Our time together was short, but I miss you.
Are you happy there? It's just tolerable here.
... ...
I will find here again.
August 2, 2022
August 2, 2022
Hi, Dad! As I was fishing with my little boys this past week, I was thinking about our many wilderness adventures together. I look forward to passing along all the survival skills, sense of adventure, and respect for nature that you instilled in me. But I wish you were here, too. I miss you so much, Dad!
August 10, 2018
August 10, 2018
I really miss you bro! I miss our talks and your wisdom, but most of all your sense of humor. You could always cheer me up, and everyone else around you. You were taken far too early and are greatly missed.
August 2, 2018
August 2, 2018
Thinking about you today, Dad. Recent camping trips with my boys brought fond memories of our outdoor adventures together. Miss you very much.
November 16, 2016
November 16, 2016
Dad,
I just want you to know that nothing gives me more joy than to watch my boys grow and to share life's little moments and adventures with them. I'm beginning to see life through a different perspective as a father, and I feel like I know and understand you more now than I ever did before. You're sorely missed and we think about you often. Hugs and kisses from us all.
Love,
Son
November 16, 2016
November 16, 2016
Thinking of you and the family today.

Peter and Linda
August 2, 2016
August 2, 2016
You continue to be missed and remembered by family and friends. We are grateful that our paths crossed during your lifetime.
Peter and Linda
November 17, 2014
November 17, 2014
I'll remember Tim, forever...
Time goes by too fast..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_zI5pQ1J-0
               Lyrics & Original Song by Brown Eyes (Korean Musician)

Time flies by......

I`ve been waiting all my life for a man that just like you
memories of you are like a deep blue sky
you are the one for the rast of my life
always you're teardrops of my tears

every little step I take cause that I take with you
you`re like a star in the sky for me
the smile on your face it`s the hope in my eyes
let`s have a small cake that's for us

I believe in you I believe in your mind
Don't let know that the time flies by
but you know it`s true and I know you're in my soul
I`m here for you
every little step I take cause that I`ll take with you
you`re like a star in the sky for me
the smile on my face It`s the hope in your eyes
let`s have a small cake that`s for us
I believe in you I believe in your mind
don't let know that the time flies by
but you know it`s true and I know you're in my soul
I`m here for you
If I'll never get to see your face like before
I know I'm never taking a break any more
no one as will ever I feel in love
I`ve really just want you to stay
I will love - to you
I believe in you I believe in your mind
Don't let know that the time flies by
but you know it`s true and I know you're in my soul

I`m here for you
December 3, 2013
December 3, 2013
I knew Tim for a short while but felt as though I had known him forever. He was so kind and giving. He gave so much to our country in his service and for the many he counseled. I only wished I had known him sooner and been able to give more back to him. He will be missed.
November 27, 2013
November 27, 2013
Since I was a small child I always knew my brother was there to protect me. As I grew it became even more apparent. My life will be so empty without his counsil and advice and comfort. And especially his humor. He could always make me laugh. I think I will miss his sense of humor most of all. The world is a colder place without him. He will be missed by so many. He did so many remarkable things and helped so many people. He was taken far too soon. He was truly a wonderful man, and I know he is being greatly rewarded now. It's just so hard to say goodby. But goodby, Bro! I will always miss you.
November 22, 2013
November 22, 2013
It has been 6 days now since I said goodbye to our beloved Tim.

On the surface, he had the appearance of any other American man, but while living his life with his loving Kimberly he came to know the Korean people and feel the way Koreans do.

He had a respectful nature and was always considerate of other people. His affectionate eyes and gentle voice made people open up and respect him. He had walked the earth for 60 years and spent his life giving to many people. He never stopped giving his love even at his last moments on earth by donating his precious organs.

I know I'm no longer able to be with him, however I believe he's still watching his loved ones from somewhere in heaven. When he comes to my minds and I feel his voice, I'm sure he's with me and talking to me. I believe in keeping him in my memories and sharing his love with others. 

It saddens us to know that I will not be able to hear his words of wisdom anymore.
Please keep whispering to me as you did.
Remind me to love ourselves, to love our neighbors.
To share what we have, to give what we can.

It's time for us to say goodbye forever.
I'll always remember you.
I love you forever, Tim
November 20, 2013
November 20, 2013
His work is now complete! Although we knew Tim for only a short period of his life, Peter and I saw him as an honest, giving and selfless man who was always passionate about his family, work, and nation. He has helped to make the world a better place in which to live with the legacy he has left us. Kimberly, Sebastian and Samantha you should know that in conversations we had with him, he was always concerned about your future welfare. In addition, his patients will always be grateful for the help he offered them throughout his career. Finally, his nation is safer for his years of service in the military. What a legacy he has left behind! Although we cannot be with you during this time, be assured our thoughts and prayers are with you. Rest in peace Tim and in dying may you be born to eternal life.

Linda and Peter
November 19, 2013
November 19, 2013
Dad,
I'll always be grateful for the important lessons you taught me throughout my life and for making me the man that I am today. I'm so thankful to have such an amazing role model, and can only hope to be as great a dad for my children as you were for me.

I created this site to give everyone who loved you a place to honor your life and share our cherished memories of you. May you live on in our hearts forever.

Love,
Son
November 19, 2013
November 19, 2013
It has been such an honor to know you and be a part of your family over the last 5 years. We were able to create so many memories and I thought there would be so many more to come. I'm saddened that such a beautiful life was cut so short. I promise to be there for your son and family during this difficult time. And I promise to share memories of you to our sweet little boy, and tell him everyday how much his grandfather loved him. Thank you for your service and dedication to our country, and thank you for all the love and memories. Love, Your "Favorite" daughter-in-law as you always said to me, Mailani
November 19, 2013
November 19, 2013
I did not get to meet Mr. Burns, but I know his son Sebastian. Seba talked about him all the time. Seba is a great person and will be a great dad and I believe it is because of the direction, leadership and understanding from his father. The legacy seen in his children, their family and friends is a tribute to the lasting influence he made in their lives. I love Lani and Sebastian and am thankful they were able to be in Hawaii. May the Lord bless and keep you all, my heart is with you.
November 19, 2013
November 19, 2013
When I first met Mr. Burns I remember thinking, what a warm welcome he gave my dad and I. He and Mrs. Burns were very nice and had made dinner for all that evening. Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
November 19, 2013
November 19, 2013
Tim, it was truely wonderful getting a chance to know you. You have had a wonderful life and your family will have so many great times to lean on. You wil be sorely missed! I promise to share a kiss with you for Kainoa. Aloha

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November 16, 2023
November 16, 2023
Today marks 10 years without my incredible dad. A respected military officer, a Taekwondo master and gym nut, a psychologist and guiding light for patients struggling with mental health, an outdoorsman and survivalist, a marksman and gun collector, a too-cool-for-school motorcycle driver... He was a man of many talents but, above all, an extraordinary father, family man, serviceman, teacher, and leader.

As I navigate through life, now almost 40 and a father of three wonderful boys, I often reflect on the lessons he imparted. I remember his patience, which seemed as vast as the ocean compared to my own, his humor and fun loving nature that always brightened our days, his unwavering integrity and sense of duty, and the wisdom that he shared so tactfully. These are all qualities I strive to emulate in my own life, though never quite as well as he did in his.

My sons are too young to have known him, but they do have a bit of an idea of who he was, and carry on small pieces of his legacy as passed through me. They practice Taekwondo weekly, though not quite as passionately as he did, and do enjoy the occasional outdoor adventure, which I hope to expand upon, as a tribute to his love for nature that he shared with us.

Dad, your legacy lives on through us. You set an an incredible standard for us to aspire to. Your spirit guides me as I try to be the best father to my boys, just as you were for me and Samantha. Your memory is a beacon of light in our lives... full of love, optimism, compassion, empathy, wisdom, respect, and selflessness.

We miss you every day... your love, laughter-filled memories, passion for life, and hard-earned lessons continue to inspire and guide us. Here's to you, the best dad I could have ever asked for.
November 28, 2022
November 28, 2022
I recently visited this site. I didn't even come to the anniversary.
Thinking back on the past, I was immersed in memories for a while.
Our time together was short, but I miss you.
Are you happy there? It's just tolerable here.
... ...
I will find here again.
August 2, 2022
August 2, 2022
Hi, Dad! As I was fishing with my little boys this past week, I was thinking about our many wilderness adventures together. I look forward to passing along all the survival skills, sense of adventure, and respect for nature that you instilled in me. But I wish you were here, too. I miss you so much, Dad!
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