Mary Beth Burns

Mary Beth Burns (nee Owens), age 84, of Valparaiso, IN, passed away on Monday, August 10, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born in Gary, IN, on May 20, 1942. Mary Beth was a graduate of St. Catherine of Siena High School Class of 1961. She was co-owner of Burns Funeral Home & Crematory in Crown Point & Hobart, IN. Mary Beth was preceded in death by her husband, Terrence P. Burns; parents, Ben Owens, Sr. and Margaret D. Carmien; brother, Ben Owens, Jr.; sister, Barbara G. Ganan; brothers-in-law, James Ganan and John “Jack” Chevigny; father-in-law, Edward Burns; mother-in-law, Genevieve Burns. She is survived by her children: Jeannine (Charles) Clark, Leslie Martorell, Patrick (Heather) Burns; grandchildren: Ryan & Hayden Burns, Colin Martorell, Katie & Patrick Clark; sisters-in-law, Joan Owens and Barbara “Babs” Chevigny; brother-in-law, James (Sally) Burns; several nieces and nephews and many dear friends. Mary Beth was a devoted sports fan proudly cheering on the Green Bay Packers, Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Chicago Cubs. She had a special place in her heart for dogs, loving each one she welcomed into her life throughout the years. Her dogs were more than pets – they were cherished companions, loyal friends, and beloved members of her family. She found great joy in their unconditional love and never met a dog she didn’t adore. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Cindy Gollnick and Lynn Koepp for the wonderful care provided for Mary Beth during the past seven years and The Willows Hospice for helping us navigate her final journey. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Willows Hospice, 9150 E. 109th Avenue, Crown Point, IN. A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. at Burns Funeral Home & Crematory, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN. Prayer service will take place on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Burns Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Holy Spirit Roman Catholic Church, 7667 E. 109th Avenue, Winfield, IN. Rev. Thomas Mischler & Rev. Gerald Schweitzer Concelebrating. Interment at Calvary Cemetery, 2701 Willowdale Road, Portage, IN. Please visit Mary Beth’s online obituary and guestbook at www.burnsfuneral.com.

Mary Beth Burns

May 20, 1942 - August 10, 2026