Christopher R. Burns, 35, Kearney died Sunday, May 22, 2016, as the result of an automobile accident in Kearney County. Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 27, 2016 at Kearney Evangelical Free Church with Pastor Brian Klein officiating. Burial will be at a later date.

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MINDEN — Christopher R. Burns, 35, of Kearney died Sunday, May 22, 2016, as the result of an automobile accident in Kearney County.

Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at Kearney Evangelical Free Church with the Rev. Brian Klein officiating. Burial will be later. Horner Lieske McBride & Kuhl Funeral and Cremation Services in Kearney is in charge of arrangements.

Chris was born Jan. 4, 1981, in Grand Island to Chuck and Kathy (Witthuhn) Burns. He grew up in Callaway, where he attended school, and later obtained his GED. He worked as a mechanic in the Kearney area. He loved to hunt and fish, golf, work on cars and ride motorcycles. His love of riding earned him the nickname “Dirt” by his friends. Chris could strike up a conversation with anyone, including strangers.

He was a believer in Christ and enjoyed his “Life group” through the E-Free Church. Chris’ family and friends were important to him, and they helped him turn his life around when times were tough.

Chris is survived by his parents, Kathy and Jerry Hickenbottom of Kearney; sisters, Crystal Schuman and husband Jake of Minneapolis and Carrie Gumaer and husband Jeremy of Utica; brother, Tim Hickenbottom and wife Jen of Callaway; grandparents, Elmo Witthuhn of Callaway and Helen and Gerald Dorris of Kearney; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Chris was preceded in death by his grandparents, Marjorie Witthuhn, Bill Hickenbottom and Bud and Arlene Burns.