Valerie Ann Burns

Valerie Ann Burns, age 92, of Austin, Minnesota, died Sunday, January 4, 2026, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home in Austin. She was born February 13th, 1933, in St. Paul, Minnesota to Leslie and Lorene (Wollenburg) Hinks.

On May 5, 1951, Valerie was united in marriage to Marlyn E. Burns, Sr. at Trinity Lutheran Church in rural Waltham. A lifelong resident of Austin, Valerie worked for Sears for many years and cut hair on the side. She was an active member of the Sterling Silver Club and belonged to Holy Cross Lutheran Church, where she faithfully volunteered. Valerie also gave her time to Austin Medical Center and QTV.

In her earlier years, Valerie loved traveling and camping, creating fond memories along the way. Above all else, she cherished her family and held a special place in her heart for her beloved grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter, Vicki (Don) Norrell of Spring, Texas; sons, Marlyn “Butch” (Melissa) Burns, Jr. of Dent, Minnesota, and Darin (Angela) Burns of Owatonna, Minnesota; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brothers, Bill (Carolyn) Hinks and Don Hinks; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Valerie was preceded in death by her husband, Marlyn; parents, Leslie and Lorene Hinks; her sister, Marlene Schroeder; brothers, Les Hinks, John Hinks, Jerry Hinks, Orris Ohm, and Myron Ohm; and her grandson, Joseph Burns.

A funeral service for Valerie will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Worlein-Hoff Funeral Home in Austin, Minnesota. The visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Austin. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to be given to St. Croix Hospice. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes of Austin are assisting the family with arrangements.