Neil Burns
May 01, 1946 - January 13, 2026
Obituary
MARSHALL – Neil Patrick Burns Jr, age 79, passed away, at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, after end stage renal disease. Neil “Sonny” Burns was born on May 1, 1946, in Wisconsin, to Neill Sr. and Katherine (Lower-Youtzy) Burns. He grew up in Hollandale and graduated from Verona High School. Neil married the love of his life, Marsha Gosda, on July 8, 1972, in Madison, WI. Together they had two wonderful daughters. He grew up farming, hauling milk, and went on to driving truck until his retirement in 2020. Neil and Marsha raised hogs, and his daughters competed in Fairs. He enjoyed playing cards, camping, fishing, and driving his John Deere Tractors aka “His Put Puts”. His first tractor was a 60 John Deere. Neil will be greatly missed by his grandkids and his best friend Jake, aka “fur baby”.
Neil is survived by his wife of almost 53 years, Marsha; daughters, Robyn (Bernie) Dodge and Becky (Darin) Schmidt; grandchildren, Cortnie (Brad) Keller, Callie Howell, Caitlynn (Jay) Bouchonville-Dodge, and Ethan Schmidt; great grandchildren, Alice and Rory; sister-in-law, Julie Gosda; and brother-in-law, Mike Gosda. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other family and friends. Neil is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Beatrice, Lois, Dorothy, and Patricia.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00AM on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Ryan Funeral Home, 6924 Lake Road, DeForest. A visitation will be held from 9:00AM until time of service on Friday at the funeral home. Burial at Pierceville Cemetery, Marshall, WI.
A special thanks to Agrace Hospice, and especially Ashley and Lorna for their loving care.
Neil will always be in our hearts and never forgotten. He will be greatly missed. We will see you again. My love will never stop for you.
You are my forever and always. Love you, Ma.
To view his obituary and leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com
Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Windsor/DeForest Chapel
6924 Lake Road
608-846-4250