Kenneth Joseph Burns Jr. of Sycamore IL passed away on April 25, 2023 at the age of 48, at Loyola University Medical Center. He was born on August 8, 1974, in Edison, NJ. Ken, or as everyone in the industry called him, Junior, worked at Upstaging, Inc. for 32 years. He traveled the world as crew chief for Upstaging supporting many well-known artists and events. He was known for his professionalism, dedication, leadership, kindness, and ever-present smile. His calm demeanor allowed him to become a mentor to many new Upstaging crew members over the years.
The family is in awe of the outpouring of love, support, and most of all the respect everyone has shown for Junior. His family shared the news of Junior’s passing on Facebook: “It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of my brother Kenneth Burns Jr early this morning. He fought very hard to beat his cancer diagnosis, but his body just couldn’t take it anymore. He had such a positive attitude throughout his treatment we were amazed by him. If you have pictures or memories of Kenneth please share, we would love to see them.”
Upstaging shared the following about Junior on their Facebook page: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved colleague and friend, Ken Burns (Junior). Ken was a dedicated professional who worked tirelessly for Upstaging for over 32 years. Junior was a true professional who was always willing to go the extra mile. Ken was also a kind and compassionate person who always had a smile on his face.
Ken will be fondly remembered by the crews that he worked with around the world. Ken toured for many years with Sting, The Police, Eric Clapton, Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias, and countess other shows. Ken was one of the best stage lighting crew chiefs in the world and was a mentor to many young technicians. Junior is deeply missed here at Upstaging and by all that knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kens family and friends during this difficult time.
There will be a memorial service for Junior on Friday, May 5, 2023, from 4pm – 8pm at Anderson Funeral Home, 2011 S 4th St, Dekalb IL 60115.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Behind The Scenes in memory of Kenneth Joseph Burns Jr. at https://wp.behindthescenescharity.org/.
Further information from the Anderson Funeral Home: www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.
PLSN will have more remembrances of Junior in the weeks ahead.
