Submitted by Christopher Burns and family–
Charles Francis Burns, 87, of Citrus Heights, California, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, in Antelope, California.
Charles was born on August 8, 1937, in San Diego, California, to Albert and Elizabeth Burns. His father was in the United States Navy, and as a child he lived in various places, including Honolulu, Hawaii, prior to the outbreak of World War II, as well as Oakland and Sacramento, California. The family eventually made their home in Fair Oaks, California. Charles graduated from San Juan High School in 1955. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science from Sacramento State College in 1968, which was later renamed California State University, Sacramento.
While working for the federal government in Sacramento, Charles met his future wife, Patricia. They were married in Sacramento, California on August 31, 1968.
After he and Patricia were married, Charles began his career as a property adjuster with State Farm Insurance in Santa Rosa. They soon welcomed their son, Christopher. They later moved to the Fresno area, and welcomed their daughter, Calli. The family then relocated to Washington state, where Charles worked for Fireman’s Fund Insurance. In the mid-1980s, the family moved to Citrus Heights, California. There, Charles continued his insurance career at USAA Insurance as a Large Loss Property Manager.
Charles was a lifelong San Francisco Giants fan, often making annual trips to Arizona to watch their spring training. Charles also had a deep love for classic films, often watching them repeatedly, such as It’s a Wonderful Life. He spent many hours enjoying historical documentaries and mystery shows like Matlock. He played in a senior softball league, as well as countless rounds of pinochle. In retirement, he and Patricia traveled around the United States, and to other countries such as Scotland, Ireland, England, Canada, Israel to name a few.
Charles will be remembered for his love of his family, love of baseball, and his kindness. Charles is preceded in death by his parents Albert and Elizabeth, and his brother, Alfred Burns. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Patricia; his son, Christopher; his daughter, Calli; and many relatives and friends who loved him.
*Publisher’s Note: As a free service to family members who have lost a loved one, The Sentinel publishes online obituaries of Citrus Heights residents or former residents at no cost. To submit an obituary, click here
