Ed was born in La Junta, CO to Lewis Vandiver and Estella Myrtle (Stamp) Burns. He was the youngest of 12 children. Ed served in the US Army. He married Norita Houchens in1957. They were a very special couple and adopted two children Jeffrey and Tammy. He retired from WestPlains Energy as a Superintendent.

He loved reading, hunting, fishing, camping, trapping with his dogs and did leatherwork. He was also an avid taxidermist. He never met a stranger, he enjoyed talking with everyone.

Ed is survived by his children Jeff Burns of Albuquerque, Tammy McCann (Jimmy Gallego) of La Junta. Grandchildren Delano and Brendan Burns of Albuquerque. Christopher (Natalie) Smart of Cheraw, Lance (Shelbi) Smart of Rocky Ford. Great Grandchildren Kech, Kynzlee Smart of Rocky Ford and Rhyker Smart of Cheraw.