Obituary for Robert “Bill” Burns

Bill Burns

October 23, 1941 – June 26, 2024

Robert William “Bill” Burns, 82, of Ponca City, OK, left this life on June 26, 2024. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, July 1, 2024, at Trout Funeral Home Chapel, with Kyle Robedeaux officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 505 Thunderbird Rd, Tonkawa, OK, 74653.

Bill was born on October 23, 1941, in Pawnee, OK, to Robert George and Marian Mae (Kihega) Burns. After high school, he joined the United States Army, serving in the Airborne unit. Bill married Joan “Joni” Quiring on January 2, 1996, in Miami, OK. They recently celebrated being together 32 years on June 17.

Bill was a salesman for Smith Gruner for several years. Earlier in his career, he helped found KRPT radio station in Anadarko, OK, and served as the stations DJ and salesperson. He was later DJ for KOMA in Oklahoma City. He also served as the Otoe-Missouria Tribal Director. Late in his career, Bill served as Assistant Dean of Students at Northern Oklahoma College.

Bill was a talented artist who also enjoyed fishing and was a member of the Shriners, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Elks Lodge. He was an avid Oklahoma State University fan and alumnus.

Bill is survived by: his wife, Joni Burns of Ponca City, OK; son, Jon Burns and his wife, Genie, of Cold Spring, TX; daughter, Bobbie Taylor of Ponca City, OK; step-son, Jarod Spencer of Ponca City, OK; step-daughter, Kate Spencer of Wichita, KS; 9 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members. He was preceded in death by: his parents; great-grandchild, Desmond Arkeketa; and sisters, Evelyn Kihega and Bea Lammers.

The family request those attending the Celebration of Life Ceremony, dress casually and show their support by wearing Oklahoma State University attire. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of North Central Oklahoma, 445 Fairview Ave, Ponca City, OK, 74601, or to the military organization of your choice.

Source: Trout Funeral Home