Robert Desmonde (Bob) Burns, 71, of Punta Gorda, Florida passed away at home with family and friends at his side, March 12, 2016, after a twenty-two year valiant battle with cardiomyopathy.

Bob was born March 30, 1944 in Detroit, Michigan to Robert C. and Dorothy D.(nee Desmonde) Burns. Bob was a spectacular husband to his wife Candace, a great friend to all who knew him, a lover of cats and all animals, lover of the sea, a sailor, a sea captain, college teacher, high school science teacher, tennis player, author, cartoonist and incredibly funny. His boundless sense of humor was never without surprises.

Bob is survived by his wife of 45 years, Candace Turner Burns, his sister-in-law Melody Sue Hopewell, his good friends: Diane Cain, Jon and Kim Pelzer, Jim Griset, Cheryl and Gay Hopkins and many other loving friends. Bob will be greatly missed by his three feline friends: Molly, McGee and Bo.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday March 16th, at 1:00 PM, at Roberson Funeral Home, 215 Mary Street, Punta Gorda, FL, 33950. In lieu of flowers, please honor Bob by making donations to the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County or Tampa General Hospital Foundation Transplant House.

Candace wishes to express her special thanks to all the doctors and staff at Tampa General Hospital Transplant Center who worked lovingly, compassionately and tirelessly to provide the best possible care for Bob.

Friends and loved ones may visit at www.robersonfh.com to sign the memory book and extend condolences to the family. Arrangements are by Roberson Funeral Home & Crematory Punta Gorda Chapel.