Roger was born the son of Layton and Dora Paul Burns on August 10, 1935, in Gilman, Iowa. He was raised in Gilman and Laurel, Iowa and graduated from Laurel High School with the class of 1953. He attended Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa. Roger honorably served his country as a Specialist 3rd Class in the United States Army. Following his military service, he farmed with his father near Gilman. He was united in marriage to Janet Schaper on March 30, 1958, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Marshalltown, Iowa. To this union were born their sons, Scot and Chris. The couple resided in Laurel most of their lives and moved to Grinnell in 1999, shortly after Roger retired from farming. Roger was a member of the Gilman United Methodist Church. He was a 50 year member of the Grinnell Eagles Club, where he served as president from 1996-1997 and he was the secretary treasurer for several years, and was a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge in Grinnell. Roger loved his family and farming. His family described him as having a great sense of humor, was a devoted grandfather, and was someone who taught the values of honesty and how to enjoy life. His enjoyments included bowling, fishing for Walleye and Salmon, golfing, and attending his grandchildren's activities. Roger is survived by his wife of 50 years, Janet Burns of Grinnell; his sons, Scot (Cathy) Burns of Grinnell and Chris (Teresa) Burns of Brooklyn; 7 grandchildren; 2 great grand-children; his sister, Linda (Rich) Wilkening of Perry; his mother-in-law, Ruie Schaper; and his brother-in-law, Darwin (Beve) Schaper of Newton, Alabama. Roger was 73 years of age and he was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, Richard in infancy and Ronald. Roger Burns Memorial Fund and sent in care of Janet Burns, 1818 Fifth Avenue, Grinnell, Iowa 50112.