Alison "Ali" Burns

Alison Jean Burns, age 59, passed away on Friday, March 25, 2022, at UW Hospital with her sister at her side. She was born on June 27, 1962, to William and Joan (Kazalski) Burns in Madison, where she was a lifelong resident. Alison was born at a time when there were no special education programs or disability services available. She was one of four children and loved dearly by her entire family. She became a long-time resident of Central Wisconsin Center for the Developmentally Disabled. There she met wonderful caregivers who became her chosen family. She worked in the workshop shredding paper and pulling copper. She loved her work and became one of the top earners.

Alison also enjoyed Lawrence Welk, especially Arthur Duncan’s tap-dancing performances. She liked watching sports. She learned when it was time to cheer although never rooted for any particular team. In fact, Ali never judged others or held any bias. She loved everyone once they survived her trial period of trust building. Ali never spoke a word in her 59 years and yet she left behind a legacy of lessons to treat all people equally, love deeply and that everyone, no matter their abilities, adds to the richness of our world.

Ali is survived by her mother, Joan Burns and her siblings, Gilbert (Carol) Burns and Becky (Jeanne Sears) Burns. She was preceded in death by her father, William Burns, and sister, Carol (Burns) Statz.

At this time, no services will be held.