Mrs. Emiko Burns, 88, of New Hartford, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Wynn Hospital with her loving family by her side.

     Emiko was born in Tochigi, Japan, on March 5, 1938, the daughter of Kichitaro and Chika (Shire) Kitazume. She was raised and educated in Japan. On November 9, 1959, she was united in marriage to Lawrence Burns, sharing a loving and devoted union that spanned 58 years until Lawrence’s passing in 2017. Emiko was employed at the General Electric Company in Utica and later at Joseph & Feiss Clothing Company. She subsequently dedicated many years of service to the Lutheran Home in Clinton, where she remained until her retirement. Emiko found great joy in sewing and cooking and was known for the care and love she expressed through these talents. In her later years, she especially enjoyed spending time at the casino, a pastime that brought her much enjoyment.

     Mrs. Burns is survived by her loving son, Michael J. Burns of New Hartford; her beloved daughter, Eileen Burns of Palm Bay, Florida; her two cherished grandsons, Noah and Connor; and her special granddaughter, Lisa Sowich, whom she adored. She is also survived by her sister, Toshiko Fukuda and her children, niece, Yukiko and nephew, Kazuya and her brothers, Shinech Kitazume and Shitoshi Kitazume, all of Japan. In addition to her beloved husband, Lawrence, and her parents, Kichitaro and Chika Kitazume, Emiko was predeceased by her son-in-law, Bert Kaiser.

     Emiko’s family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at the Eastern Star Home in Oriskany and Home Care Your Way Aides for the compassionate care provided to mom. 

     A Celebration of Life honoring Emiko's memory will be held later this summer.