It is with great sadness that we have to announce the passing of Richard Alan Burns (67) on June 6, 2023. He passed away peacefully, just as he wished, while watching TV and resting in bed at his daughter’s home in El Centro, CA.

Alan was born in Eureka on December 11, 1955, to Richard and Carmen Burns. Alan went to South Bay Elementary School and graduated high school in 1974 from Jacobs Junior High School. Here is where he met a group of kindred spirits who affectionately called themselves the “Alley Gang” — Jerry Alley, Orlan Larson, Phillip Sanchez, Paul McKnight, and the late Matias Salas, Don Thomas, Darrel Crocket, David Alley, Steven Burres and Jake Mosely.

Graduating from high school, he decided to join the forestry service as a firefighter. He had always been passionate about nature and the outdoors, and this seemed like the perfect way to combine his interests.

After that, Alan decided to embark on a journey across the western United States. He had always been fascinated by the natural beauty of this region and was eager to explore it firsthand. However, as much as he enjoyed his time on the road, he returned to Eureka with the passing of his mother.

For the next 30 years he worked as a commercial fisherman on various boats in Eureka and Coos Bay. For many of those years he worked beside his two brothers, Kenny and David. Among his peers, he was affectionately known as “Big Al.” He will forever live on in the hearts of the fishing community as a delightful jester whose quick wit and hilarious commentary brought laughter among the crew.

He never cared about conforming to society’s norms or pleasing others. Instead, he followed his heart and did what made him happy. His carefree lifestyle was something that many people admired, but few had the courage to emulate.

Alan may not have been perfect, but he definitely got one thing right: his unconditional love for his daughters, Valerie and Lacey. With the support of their patient mom, Nancy Nichols, Alan always made sure to show his love and pride for his girls in every way possible. Whether it was attending their school events, cheering them on at their sports games, or just sitting down with them for a family dinner, Alan never missed an opportunity to be there for his family.

Alan was a true nature lover. He loved exploring beaches, camping in the woods, and taking refreshing dips in rivers and lakes. Fishing was one of his favorite pastimes and he always kept a fishing pole handy. He loved the challenge of trying to catch a big fish, but he also appreciated the simple moments of just sitting and enjoying the scenery. He had a special bond with nature and was blessed with a green thumb. He and his close friend David Cooper spent countless years working together nurturing their greenery with passion and dedication.

Alan was a man of many passions. One of his favorite activities was taking his canoe out on the Humboldt Bay and seeing where it would take him. He was also a rock enthusiast. Every time he went outdoors, his eyes were always scanning the ground for that one-of-a-kind gem. He spent hours upon hours searching for the perfect rocks to add to his collection and was always happy to show off his latest finds. Another hobby of Alan’s was archaeology. He was an amateur but loved the thrill of unearthing old bottles and other relics from the past. He would often spend hours digging around the Eureka area, looking for hidden treasures. It was a way for him to connect with the past and feel a sense of excitement about what he might find.

Alan also loved traveling the open road in his beloved truck and seeing where it would take him. He had countless memories of road trips, camping trips, and spontaneous adventures. He loved the freedom and independence that came with being behind the wheel of his truck. Whether he was driving through the mountains or cruising along the coast, his adventurous soul always led the way. Sometimes he had a plan, but more often than not he just let the road guide him. And no matter where he ended up, he knew his truck would be there with him, ready for the next adventure.

Alan is preceded in death by his parents, incredible big brother Kenny Burns, favorite nephew Kenny Alan Burns and granddaughter Adaline Pritt. He is survived by his dedicated daughters, Valerie Pritt (husband Joshua) and Lacey Bresino (husband David), his caring siblings Linda Alora (husband Mike), David Burns (wife Kim), Patrick Burns (wife Rachel) and Sister-in-law Robin, his loving grandchildren Vivian, Rockwell, David Jr. and Fletcher and many nieces and nephews.

Memorial Service will be held Saturday, August 12th, 12pm at the Woman’s Club in Samoa.