Daniel Joseph Burns, 63, of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home on March 5th, 2026, surrounded by love.
Born on August 31st, 1962, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to the late Daniel Joseph Burns Sr., Daniel grew up in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. He dedicated much of his professional life to public service as a police officer for the City of Duquesne, serving with integrity, courage, and a deep commitment to his community and fellow officers. He loved writing, especially about law enforcement and American history. He channeled his passion for the region’s past into writing four local history books for Arcadia Publishing’s “Images of America” series: Duquesne, Bedford and Its Neighbors, Homestead and the Steel Valley, and Pittsburgh’s Rivers. Through these works, he preserved and shared the stories of the towns, rivers, and neighborhoods that shaped his life and career. As a frequent speaker in the Pittsburgh area, Dan enjoyed sharing his knowledge of history and law enforcement with various organizations and historical societies.
In 2006, Daniel married the love of his life, Sarah, in Bedford, Pennsylvania. Their years together were filled with love, companionship, mutual support, laughter, and the simple joys that made their home a place of warmth and peace. Dan was known for his sense of humor, unwavering loyalty, protective nature, and the calm resilience he brought to every challenge. He found great fulfillment in researching local history, relaxing at home, going on adventures with Sarah, and treasuring time with his beloved dogs, Katy, Sydney, and Abbie, who were constant companions and brought him endless happiness.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Sarah (Manns) Burns of Ellwood City; his aunt, Patricia Davis; his children, Evan, Samantha, and Collin; a large extended family, and many dear friends and former colleagues.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, March 14th, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Divine Grace Parish, Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 415 4th Street, Ellwood City, PA 16117. There will be no public visitation. Sarah will receive family and friends prior to the service from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Arrangements are under the direction of the Samuel Teolis Funeral Home and Crematory Inc., 309 Spring Avenue, Ellwood City, PA 16117. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Divine Grace Parish, or Animal Friends of Pittsburgh.
Daniel’s legacy—as a protector, a devoted husband, a father, a police officer, an author, and a loving companion to his dogs—will endure through the lives he touched and the stories he preserved. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Rest in peace, my beloved husband.
