Norman Lewis Burns

Norman Lewis Burns, of Scotts Valley, California, passed away peacefully at home on August 17, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded and cared for by his family.

Born in Tulare County in 1934, Norm was a machinist by trade. When he moved to Scotts Valley in 1968 he established Scotts Valley Photography and won several awards for his portraiture. He later returned to machining, building prototypes for the medical and computer industries. After retiring, he pursued woodworking, creating intricate boxes, cutting boards, and birdhouses, and became a skilled beekeeper.

Fishing was his lifelong passion. A fixture at the Santa Cruz Harbor for many years, he shared his love of the sea with family and friends and was known for his generosity, often sharing smoked salmon, honey, and handcrafted woodwork.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Bonnie Burns; his children Linda Burns and June Donnelly (John); his stepchildren Laura Lewis (Michael), Coleen Wagner (Joe), April Golston (Andy Kreyche), and Nancy Burns; his many grandchildren, including Jordan Golston and Graden Golston-Kreyche, who were especially close and present in his final days; 16 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his stepson, Kevin Burns in 2022.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Michael Ellison for his exceptional care and steadfast support, which will always be remembered with gratitude. A memorial service will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 6401 Freedom Blvd, Aptos, on October 18 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Norm’s name may be made to Valley Churches United, honoring the memory of Annette Marcum.