Rodger “Buck” Burns, age 70, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, passed away on January 25, 2026 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana. He was born on April 5, 1955, and was the son of the late Henry Burns and Dean Willis. Buck was a man who appreciated the quiet of his river camp and the excitement of a St. Louis Cardinals win. Whether he was hosting a fish fry or acting as the family’s ‘Grill Master’ with his signature homemade BBQ sauce, he took immense pride in the joy his cooking brought to others.
He is survived by his daughters, Jamie (John) Hallenberger and Jessica Lewis; his brothers, Jim (Barbara) Burns, Larry (Karen) Burns, and Dennis Willis; four grandchildren, Connor, Alexis, Kyle, Kaelyn; and his partner Pamela Weiss. He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews, who affectionately called him “Uncle Buck.”
A celebration of life to honor Buck’s memory will be announced at a later date.
Angela says
My condolence to family and friends may he RIP.
AMY BANKS says
Buck was not just a friend, he was part of my extended family. He was always there if I needed help with fixing anything around the house. He was a very generous and kind man. He will be missed by many and will always hold a special place in my heart. May He rest in peace 🙏