Francis "Frank" Burne

Francis R. Burne, of Dunmore, peacefully passed away on Sep 8 at the age of 98.  For the past few years, he was a popular and beloved resident at Allied Terrace assisted living facility in Scranton.  His wife of 64 years, the former Elaine A. Verrastro, of Dunmore, died in 2013.

In addition to his beloved wife, he was preceded in death by his sister and husband, Evelyn and Piero Belardi; his brother and wife, George and Alberta Burne, along with eleven other brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and six nephews.

Born in Scranton, son of the late George and Helen Burne, Frank was a 1942 graduate of Scranton Tech High School and 1948 graduate of the University of Scranton.  Indeed, he was very proud to be head of three generations of U of S graduates (Frank ’48, son Chris ’80, grandson Christian ’14).  Frank and Elaine were long-time members of St Mary of Mount Carmel Church in Dunmore and were married there in 1949.  Frank worked at USF&G Insurance Company, beginning in 1964 and retiring in 1985, as the Accounting Superintendent of the Scranton Branch Office.  He also serviced many local clients and small businesses, some for over 50 years, as he maintained a public accounting practice into his 80s.  He was an avid golfer and could be seen several times a week at Scranton Muni, Pine Hills, and other area courses until retiring his clubs at age 88. A patient man, he taught his son and grandsons how to play, while also imparting wise life lessons as they walked the fairways.

Frank was a highly decorated World War II veteran.  A member of the Mighty 8th Air Force, he was lead bombardier of the 67th Squadron, 44th Group, participating in campaigns in Normandy, Northern France, and Germany.  He flew more than 30 combat missions over Nazi-occupied Europe in the legendary B-24 Liberator as an Army Air Corp First Lieutenant.  He transitioned to United States Air Force Reserve where he was promoted to Captain, eventually separating with an Honorable discharge.  A recipient of multiple Air Medals, he was also awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism in combat in 1944.  Honored to have served his country and a humble patriot, Frank was also known for being meticulous, kind and very witty — a true gentleman, and totally dedicated to his family. 

Frank was a loving and devoted son, brother, husband, dad, grampa, and great grampa.  Surviving are his son and wife, Lt General Christopher F. Burne (US Air Force retired) and Colonel Robin Pond Burne (USAF Reserve retired); grandson, Captain Christian R. Burne (US Army) and wife, Francesca Kester, and their son, his great grandson, Rhys Francis Burne; and grandson, Captain Connor R. Burne (US Army).  He is also survived by eight nieces and nephews: Fran Calpin, Carol Verastro, Steven Verrastro, Gene Belardi, Carol Covel, Lori Holda, Kelli Kusisto, and Terri Bennet.

The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to the staff at Allied Terrace for their kindhearted and considerate care over the past few years, as well as to the Allied Hospice staff and private duty aides for their compassionate care during the past few weeks.  A special thanks to special family friend, Brenda Lee-Marmo, for her cheerful caregiving and loyal friendship over the past ten years.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St John XXIII Foundation whose mission includes the pastoral support of Catholics in the Armed Forces, patients in VA Medical Centers, and government personnel serving outside of the United States.  Go to stjohnxxiiifoundation.org for donation information.

Family, friends, and fellow veterans are all welcome to attend the scheduled services.  The funeral Mass will be on Saturday, 16 Sep, at 10:00 a.m. in St Mary of Mt Carmel Church, 322 Chestnut St, Dunmore.  Interment with military honors will follow in the Dunmore Cemetery, 400 Church St, Dunmore.  Those wishing to pay their respects may also do so on Friday, 15 Sep, from 4:00 to 6:00PM at the Carlucci-Golden-DeSantis Funeral Home, 318 E. Drinker St, Dunmore. For directions or condolences, visit www.DunmoreFuneralHome.com. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.