Michael Burns

Michael Stephen Burns of Bergenfield, NJ recently residing in Ridgefield Park, NJ was born November 20, 1986 and passed away unexpectedly of natural causes at age 37 on a bicycle ride on Sunday, March 3, 2024.  He is survived by his beloved daughter Keira Briella Burns and his newborn infant son, Michael Cameron Burns; his partner Arielle Athena LaFata; his parents Bruce and Judy Burns; his brothers Daniel and his wife Rachel; David and his wife Jesse; his Nephews and Nieces, Sean, Charlee, Bella, and DJ; and loving Aunt, Uncles, and Cousins.

Mike was a member of the Ironworkers Union, Local 11 and loved the challenges of his job, especially the thrill of working on structures from very great heights.  He was a strong,outspoken, dedicated young man who lived by his ethics, morals and principles who was never afraid to speak his mind.  Mike was a truly unique individual, a man of intense passion, raw authenticity and endless humor who never failed to make an impact on those who knew him.

Mike always tried to push his own personal limits.  Wrestling was his lifelong passion, and he trained his body, mind and spirit with diligence and devotion to the art and skills of the sport.  He also served the Bergenfield community for more than a decade, coaching and officiating local youth in wrestling, softball, and baseball.  Mike was known by many family members and friends as “Mikey.” He was also known by countless others as beloved “Coach Mike,” a man passionately committed to all of the children in his life.

Mike’s life was powerful and dynamic, albeit too brief.  In his 37 years he established himself as a respected and influential figure in his community and deeply beloved member of his family.  He dedicated himself above all to his beloved children Kiera Briella and Michael Cameron, sharing all of his passion for them throughout his expansive circle of friends.  Mike Burns has left our world too soon, but he truly leaves a legacy in his wake.  He will live on in the hearts and memories of all who knew him forever.

Visitation will be on Friday, March 8, 2024 2:00-4:00pm and 7:00-9:00pm at Riewerts Memorial Home, 187 South Washington Avenue, Bergenfield NJ, and all will gather for aFuneral Mass on Saturday, March 9, 2024 10:00am at St. John the Evangelist’s Roman Catholic Church, 29 North Washington Avenue, Bergenfield, NJ 07621.  Burial will follow at Westwood Cemetery, 35 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Mike Burns’ name to the Bergenfield Wrestling Program, @bergenfieldwrestlingbooster via Venmo.