Linda Mary Sleeper-Burns

November 16, 1946 – June 23, 2026 

Born November 16, 1946, Linda Sleeper Burns lived a remarkable and vibrant life. She never met a stranger—only future friends and her warm smile, kind heart, and genuine interest in others made people feel welcome wherever she went. 

She was raised on the family farm in Sand Hollow, Idaho and was the sixth child of Lawrence and Maynetta Lair’s eight children. Linda attended all her years of school in Middleton. Many of the friendships she formed during her school years remained treasured connections throughout her life. Linda was active in sports and school activities, and those who knew her often remember her friendly nature, competitive spirit, and infectious laugh. 

Throughout her life, Linda embraced every challenge with courage and determination. From surviving 3 brain aneurysms to courageously facing cancer, her strength, determination, and unwavering positive attitude continually amazed those around her.  Whether facing life’s everyday obstacles or overcoming serious health battles, her unwavering positive attitude energized everyone around her.  Her courage left both family and friends in awe and inspired everyone fortunate enough to know her. 

More than anything, Linda loved her family and friends. She raised her daughters, Kelli and Dawn, as a single mother until she found her greatest happiness and married the love of her life, William “Bill” Burns. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Their marriage was a true partnership and a beautiful love story that endured through the years. Together, they created a warm and welcoming home where family was always the center of everything. As their girls grew into women and started families of their own, they took immense pride in welcoming grandchildren and great-grandchildren into the family they cherished so deeply. 

Home and family were Linda’s greatest treasures. She loved the holidays, dancing, gathering with friends, entertaining, and caring for others. Whether she was hosting a party, sharing Pampered Chef recipes, leading line dancing or simply opening her door to visitors, Linda had a gift for making people feel loved and welcome. 

Perhaps nothing captured Linda’s spirit better than the Christmas decorations that remained displayed in her home all year long. To some they were decorations; to Linda they were a reminder of joy, wonder, family, and celebration. They reflected the way she lived her life—finding reasons to celebrate every day and sharing happiness with everyone around her. 

Linda is survived by her devoted husband and soulmate, William Burns; daughters, Kelli Klampe and Dawn (Dan) Githens; sisters, Nancy Rosecrans and Jeanie White; brother, Bud Sleeper; and six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved beyond measure and took immense pride in watching grow. 

Though her family was the center of her world, Linda’s love extended far beyond her relatives. She leaves behind countless friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, generosity, laughter, and unwavering friendship. 

Linda was called home to be with Jesus Tuesday, 23 June 2026 following a battle with Cancer.  She was surrounded by family at the time of her passing.  Family and friends will celebrate her life Saturday, 27 June 2026 at noon at the LDC Stake Center in Ontario, Oregon.   

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