Michiko Kataoka Burns

 Michiko Kataoka Burns, 85, passed peacefully on November 13th with her family by her side. She immigrated to the United States shortly after marrying her husband, Paul, of 60 years. With her husband deployed to Vietnam, she immersed herself in the American culture and taught herself English and the art of poker. She was a “high roller” in all aspects of life. She was an avid gardener with a “special” ability to bring life back to plants. She had a love for cooking and all things food. Her smile and witty humor were infectious making her the life of the party. She loved by giving and providing for all those who were around. All who entered her home left with a full belly, a good night’s sleep and an empty Crown Royal money bag from a night of poker. Her grandchildren were her treasures and they never doubted her devotion to them. She traveled the world with her husband, her children and grandchildren. Living in all corners of the world and crossing paths with lifelong friends she made along the way, she lived and loved life to the fullest and will be deeply missed.

She leaves behind her husband Jesse “Paul” Burns Jr., Capt. USN Ret; her children, Michele (Mark) Reminga, Jesse “Paul” (Jane) Burns III, Dr. Christina (Doug) Stockwell; her grandchildren, Chelsea and Haley Reminga, Jesse Paul “PB” Burns IV, Peyton Shaw, Taylor Mayfield and Dougie Stockwell. As well as her beloved dalmatian, Mariko.

She is survived by her sisters, Sumie Kataoka and Sasae Matsuda, and many special nieces and nephews in Japan.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Sumizo and Katsu Kataoka; in laws, Jesse Paul, Sr. and Florence Burns; siblings Seiichi, Masami, Iwao, Noboru Kataoka and Chizuko Turski.

Special acknowledgements to her honorary son and daughter, Bao and Duyet Bui, and bonus grandchildren, Abbi, Alli and Andy Bui.

She will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

Visitation will be held at Mynatt Funeral Home, Halls Chapel, 4131 E. Emory Rd, Knoxville, Tn, on Friday, November 24th, 2023, from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm.

Reception to follow at Fanatic Brewing Company 2735 N. Central St, Knoxville, Tn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Pat Summit Foundation, 520 W. Summit Hill Drive, Suite 1101 Knoxville, TN 37902.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.mynattfh.com.