Thomas Michael Burns was born on April 28, 1957, and passed away on July 6, 2025, at his family home in Costa Mesa, California after nearly two decades of battles with cancer; many of which he triumphantly won. He was the son of John and Cynthia Burns, and his life was marked by deep commitment to family, strong values, and helping others.

Tom fought a long and courageous battle with cancer, facing each day with resilience and grace. He remained strong until the very end. He was an enduring source of strength and inspiration to those around him.

Tom is survived and missed dearly by his wife of 35 years Claudia, his daughter Mikayla, his son Ryan, his son-in-law Stephen, his daughter-in-law Angie, and his beloved grandchildren Mavryk, Caiyus, Ace, and Mallory, whom he would do anything for. He took an active role in the lives of his children and grandchildren, who lovingly called him Big Poppa, attending every game, tournament, graduation, birthday, and any other event where he could show his support and love.

Tom was born in New York and later traveled to live in Chicago with his family including his brothers Robert, John, and David, and his sister Susan, before settling in Omaha, Nebraska, where he spent the majority of his young life. Tom later moved to California in 1979, where he laid down roots in Orange County, met his wife, Claudia and they built a life and beautiful family together.

Tom was a successful business owner and president of Interfinish Corporation, where he took great pride in his work as a commercial contractor. He was known not only for his professional excellence, but also for his honesty, reliability, and generosity.

Tom was an avid golfer, and it was something he loved to do with his wife, friends and family, often making meaningful relationships and memories on the course.

Tom was also an active and influential member of the AA community where he changed, if not saved the lives of many. He took great pride in all that he learned through his journey and was deeply committed to sharing that wisdom and support with others.

We are going to miss Tom’s giant smile, charming personality, and incredible sense of humor. We know that his memory will live on forever in our hearts, and he walks beside us every day.

In memory of his deep love for his family, his country, and his unwavering belief in the value of hard work.

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