Jack L. Burns, 68, of Hutchinson, died April 21, 2016, at his home, following a lengthy illness. He was born Dec. 9, 1947, in Hutchinson, the eldest son of Nile Layton Burns and June Maxine (Smith) Burns.

Jack was a lifelong resident of Hutchinson, and a 1966 graduate of Nickerson High School. He worked with his parents for many years at Smith's Market, and also as a produce broker in Monet, Missouri and Wichita. Jack then went on to open his own business, Burns Construction, in Hutchinson. He was very creative and enjoyed designing, building, and making things, including the home he loved and resided in until his death. Jack also constructed a cottage on his property, which he opened to out-of-town patients seeking treatments at the Hutchinson Clinic and Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, and to friends and families of patients at Hospice of Reno County.

Jack's humor, strength, and courage in the face of his illness was inspiring, and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Survivors include: his sons, Brandon Burns and wife Tara of San Diego, Calif., Brent Burns and wife Diana of Wilson, NC; stepson, Troy Parks and wife Crystal of Wichita; stepdaughter, Carol Parks Hughes of Hutchinson; two brothers, Bill Burns of Riverside, Conn., and Larry Burns of Lancaster, Pa.; four aunts; an uncle; 12 grandchildren; and his dear friend, Virginia Elliott of Hutchinson. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of life barbecue will be held at 4 p.m. Monday, April 25, 2016, at Jack's home. Family requests those attending to dress casual and to bring their own lawn chairs. Memorials are suggested to Hospice and HomeCare of Reno County, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.