Donna Burns
1936 – 2024
Salina, Utah – Our beloved mother and grandmother Donna Christensen Burns transitioned from the Sevier Valley she loved into a peaceful eternity on January 27, 2024. Following a resilient battle against multiple ailments, she surpassed all expectations, blessing us with 8 ½ years beyond anyone’s anticipation.
Donna was born October 16, 1936, in Redmond, Utah to Raymond and Lucille Jensen Christensen. Donna married her adored soldier Dan A. Burns in Reno, Nevada on November 28, 1952. Their military journey led them to San Francisco, Texas, and Germany, where they adopted their son, Chad R. Burns, and later welcomed daughter Danna B. Shaw and son Dallas R. Burns. Unfortunately, Donna would tragically bury both sons and her husband. Despite all her hardships she excelled in her business and personal life, always giving to others and volunteering in multiple ways, in numerous associations.
Donna invented Burns Saddlery’s Indian Blanket Seat Covers and worked diligently for 52 years. Her skilled dedication delivered excellence in everything she did. Her seat covers still protect automobiles and continue to pay homage to her remarkable legacy.
Donna loved all sports, including the multiple decades of horse racing her and her family enjoyed. Her love and competitive winning spirit supported her family in all their many activities. Donna’s integrity, vast knowledge, quick wit, and straight-shooting authentic style attracted friends world-wide.
She is survived by her daughter Danna and son-in-law, Scott Shaw Salina, Utah; grandchildren Braydan (Misty) Shaw Park City, Utah; Destiny (Dru) Crane Salina, Utah; Tegan (Tommy) Peck West Jordan, Utah; Angee (Josh) Leishman, St. George, Utah; Brintton Burns St. George, Utah; Brooke (Kevin) Millett Richfield, Utah; Heather (Emilio) Velis Las Vegas, Nevada; Josh Burns Vancouver, Washington, Jewlz Manzanarez Firestone, Colorado; 18 great-grandchildren; her Burns Saddlery family, that included a second daughter, Susan Williams who worked by her side for over 40 years.
Donna is preceded in death by her parents, husband Dan, two sons, Chad, and Dallas, and brothers Ned and Ross Christensen.
Services to celebrate Donna’s life will be held Wednesday January 31, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at the Salina Stake Center.
Burial will be in the Salina Eastside Cemetery under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Home of Richfield and Salina, Utah.
Online guest book at: www.springerturner.com
