Harmon E. Burns
1945-Nov. 8, 2006
Atherton, California

Harmon E. "Buzz" Burns, vice chairman of Franklin Resources Inc., a global investment management company headquartered in San Mateo, and part owner of the San Francisco Giants, died of heart failure Nov. 8 at his home in Atherton. He was 61.

Mr. Burns was a member of the original ownership group organized in 1992 to prevent the Giants from moving to Florida. When others left the group, he acquired their interest and later became owner of the single largest stake in the team.

Growing up and playing all sports contributed to Mr. Burns' love of professional sports. His involvement with the Giants fulfilled a boyhood dream, say family members. Mr. Burns was born in Hartford, Connecticut, and traveled the world with his parents, Air Force Brigadier General Harmon E. and Judith Burns. He earned a degree in business administration at George Washington University in 1969. For two years he worked at the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission before moving to California.

His wife, Sue, joked that his reason for moving to the West was so that he could watch Giants legend Willie Mays, also of Atherton, play, say family members.

He joined Franklin Resources in 1973 when it acquired Winfield & Co., where Mr. Burns was assistant secretary. While running the legal compliance department at Franklin, Mr. Burns put himself through law school. Later he was named chief operating officer in charge of all administration and operations.

Throughout his career with Franklin, he held many positions, including chief operating officer in charge of all administration and operations, and secretary and vice president. In 1991, Mr. Burns was elected to the board of directors.

Beside his wife, Susan of Atherton, Mr. Burns' survivors include his daughters, Trina and Tori.

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