Robert E. Burns, 80, a columnist and former executive editor of U.S. Catholic magazine who is credited with helping shape a half-century of Catholic journalism, died Monday in Portage, Wis.
The magazine, published in Chicago by the Claretian Missionaries, was known as The Voice of St. Jude when Mr. Burns assumed the editor’s post in 1963. He soon began an overhaul of the magazine that included re-engineering its editorial mission, broadening its budget and changing the name.
He also christened a new editorial, “The Examined Life,” which he authored until late last year.
As executive editor of the magazine until 1984, Mr. Burns oversaw the launch of several other Catholic publications, and also authored two books: “The Examined Life” and “Catholics on the Cutting Edge.”
Mr. Burns held positions in many religious and professional organizations, including director of the Catholic Press Association for three years and a trustee of Rosary College for 12 years.
Raised on Chicago’s North Side, Mr. Burns graduated from St. George High School and Loyola University. He began his career as a public relations director for the Catholic Youth Organization and later operated his own public relations firm before being employed by Claretian Publications in 1949.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Brenda; a daughter, Madeleine F. Rodriguez; a son, Martin J.; and three grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday in Ahern Funeral Home, 6621 W. North Ave., Oak Park.
Mass will be said at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church, 7600 W. North Ave., River Forest.
