James Lee Burns, 76, of Spearfish, SD passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2020, at his home in Spearfish.

James was born on July 20, 1943, in Fargo, ND a son of Beatrice (Borman) and Lelyn Burns. At a young age he moved with his family to East Glacier, MT. He attended school in East Glacier and graduated from Browning Highschool in Browning, MT.

Following his graduation, he worked on the Boland Ranch until he was drafted into the United States Army, serving in the Vietnam War. After his Honorable discharge in 1967, James moved to Lead, SD, where he worked for Homestake Mining Company, until his retirement in 2001.

James and Darlene Wells were married on December 23, 1980. They made their home in Lead until moving to Spearfish in 2007.

James is survived by his wife, Darlene Burns of Spearfish; two sons, whom he loved dearly, John Wells of OR and Steven Wells of Spearfish and his sister, Diane. He was preceded in death by his parents, Beatrice and Lelyn and son, Terry Wells.

At his request, a private interment with full Military Honors will take place at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Isburg Crematory of Spearfish.