Patrick Barry Burns

Patrick Barry Burns passed away peacefully in the loving embrace of family on Wednesday, December 26, 2018, at 68 years old.  A resident of Dracut, Patrick was born in Lowell to the late Francis and Elizabeth (Ireland) Burns. He attended Keith Academy and then went on to attain bachelor's degrees from St. Anselm College and University of Massachusetts at Lowell.

Patrick worked as a delivery driver at Coca Cola when he met Cindy Sheeley.  They began dating, spending their time at the beach, hiking and in the mountains - he was always proud of successfully skiing Tuckerman's Ravine.   In 1977 they married and went on to enjoy 41 years of marriage, creating a warm, loving home with three children who think the world of him.

Patrick joined the Lowell Police Department as a Patrolman in August of 1977 and worked his way through the ranks to become a Lieutenant.  During his 28 year career, he was extremely well-respected and highly regarded by his colleagues and the community. In addition to his various patrol, detective, undercover and training assignments, he participated in the 181st session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA, completed Dignitary Protection Training with the Secret Service in Washington, DC, and marched with the Lowell Police in the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland.  Lieutenant Burns received numerous accolades, citations and recognitions for his work. Above all, he always showed immense pride and respect in serving as a police officer. Upon retirement in 2003, he continued to help people as a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker in Chelmsford.

Known to his family and close friends as Barry, he leaves behind his beloved wife Cindy; his daughter Katie and her husband Jon Whitney of Andover; his son Patrick, of San Francisco; and his son John Henry and his wife Kylah of Rumford, RI.  He leaves his four incredible grandchildren Tyler Jonathan, Dylan Patrick, Kayla Elizabeth, and Felicity Virginia. He also leaves his brothers both of Lowell, Michael "Kerry" and wife, Elinor; and Arthur "Toby" and wife, Martha. He is also survived by a colorful father-in-law, George T. Sheeley of Lowell. In addition, he leaves countless loving in-laws, nephews, nieces, and friends.
BURNS - Relatives and friends are invited to Patrick's Life Celebration on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019, from 4 until 8 PM at the McKENNA-OUELLETTE FUNERAL HOME, 327 Hildreth Street. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday morning at 10 AM in St. Francis Church, 115 Wheeler Road, Dracut. Burial in St. Mary Cemetery, Tewksbury.