Claire Michele Burns

Obituary Claire Michele Burns Born August 25th 1956 in Omaha, NE. She was the first of seven children born to Colleen and Theodore Burns. Michele graduated from East Bremerton High School. Post graduation Michele lived independently in Tacoma and attended Fort Steilacoom Community College. Michele was born with cerebral palsy and faced a life with many challenges. She was an advocate for the disabled. She was a board member with T.A.C.I.D. to further rights for disabled and independent living. She was a long standing member of both St. John Bosco and St. Charles Parishes. She is survived by Mother Colleen Wolfe, Father Ted Burns Jr., Sisters; Dawn (Charlie) Montgomery, Valerie (Pietro) Rossi, Dr. Patricia Burns (Jeff Elmer), Lisa (John) Gyori and Terri Burns. Brother Ted (Lourdes) Burns. Numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews and many wonderful and dedicated friends and caregivers, especially Harry Ridgely, friend and champion. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, February 7, 2008 at 11:00 am at St. John Bosco Catholic Church, Lakewood. Rosary will be recited at 10:00 am prior to Mass. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.