Scott Elgin Burns

Scott Elgin Burns passed away peacefully at his home on August 1, 2024 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 80 years old. Diane, Scott’s wife, and daughters Kari Gray and Heather MacNeil were by his side.

Scott was born on July 22, 1944 in Portland, Oregon to parents Elgin and Irene Burns. He was raised on the Oregon Coast in Nehalem. 

Scott joined the Army National Guard while in college. In August of 1965, he married his high school sweetheart, Diane. In June of 1966, he graduated from Portland State in Business Administration. His first job was with Pacific NW Bell in Renton, Washington and he worked there for 23 years until he retired in 1990. He then served as VP of Information Services for Regence BlueCross BlueShield. He retired for good in 2001. 

Scott was a man of integrity, kind and gentle, honest and trustworthy, generous and hard working. Scott loved the Lord and his love showed in many ways.

He enjoyed helping others and volunteered throughout his life. He served on Wesley Homes Board for several years. He enjoyed Habitat for Humanity and served in Yakima with the Des Moines United Methodist Church. He volunteered as a mentor at the Men’s Prison in Shelton, Washington. As a member of Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church, Scott was a part of the Mexico Build Team.

Upon Scott’s retirement, he took many trips with friends and family and enjoyed golfing and playing board games and cards. He loved outdoor activities and watching the Huskies and Seahawks.

Scott was a wonderful husband for 59 years, a loving father and grandfather. He was loved by all who knew him. Scott was an awesome person, one of a kind.  He loved his family and treasured times spent together.

Scott is survived by his loving wife, Diane, beloved daughters Kari Gray (John), Heather MacNeil (Kurt), adored grandchildren Julia Gray, Evan Gray, Jaden MacNeil, and Kayla MacNeil, sisters Bonnie Buckles (Joe), Patsi Ruscigno (John), and Melody Collett (Jeff), and many nieces and nephews. Brothers Rick Burns and Jamie Burns preceded Scott in death as well as parents Irene Burns and Elgin Burns.

For donations, please consider Alzheimer’s Association at Alz.org.