Laverne Raeford Burns

Laverne Burns ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Premier Funeral Services - Salt Lake City on Mar. 17, 2026.Obituary for Laverne Raeford BurnsLaverne Raeford Burns, age 78, passed away on March 6, 2026, in Murray, Utah. He was born on September 22, 1947, in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, to Lulabelle "Lu" Lyons and Ray Burns. He was raised by his mother Lu alongside his sister, Ruth McCloy, where the two perfected the art of teasing each other and keeping everyone around them laughing.He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 47 years, Debra Burns, and his three sons: Ryan Burns (Kate Burns), Rusty Burns, and Ben Burns (Karen Burns). He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren Teeahna Burns, Tahlia Burns, Tyrone Ngouamo, and Keagan White, along with many extended family members and friends whose lives he deeply touched.For nearly 50 years, Laverne dedicated his working life to crafting orthodontic retainers, quietly contributing to countless smiles.In his younger years, Laverne loved wrestling and football - passions that later carried into one of the roles he cherished most: being a father and coach. He made it his mission to never miss an event in his children's lives, from swim meets and theater performances to wrestling matches, baseball games, and football games. Teammates, parents, and friends all knew him well because, above all else, he showed up. That unwavering presence became one of his greatest gifts to those who loved him. Simply put, Dad was always there.Known affectionately by the mountain-man nickname "Angry Bear," Laverne's imposing exterior masked a deeply tender heart. To those closest to him, he was far more teddy bear than grizzly - always joking, teasing, and bringing laughter wherever he went. Even in his final moments, his thoughts remained focused on the well-being of his family, a testament to his lifelong devotion as a husband, father, and grandfather.Laverne will be remembered for his heartfelt prayers, as a passionate dad, a steadfast supporter, and a man whose love was measured not just in words, but in presence. His legacy lives on in the countless moments he witnessed, the sidelines he filled, and the lives he strengthened simply by being there.Saturday March 21, 2026 a viewing will be held at 11:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 12:00 p.m., where family and friends are welcome to gather and honor his life.Later that day beginning at 4:00 p.m., extended family and friends are invited to share stories and memories at his son Ryan's home in the Saddle Oaks area of West Jordan, Utah.Though deeply missed, Laverne's love, humor, and steadfast presence will continue to be felt by all who knew him. In the lives he touched and the family he cherished, his spirit will forever live on."Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy lord." - Matthew 25:23To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.