Lucas Burns, a member of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater men's basketball program from 2009-12 and gracious supporter of Warhawk Athletics, passed away Monday at the age of 30 after a battle against brain cancer.
 
A celebration of Burns' life will be held Sunday, Sept. 6, from 1-4 p.m. at 841 Brewhouse in Whitewater. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lucas Burns Memorial Scholarship, which has been set up at First Citizens State Bank in Whitewater.
 
"Lucas was an instrumental part of our 2012 national championship team and has tirelessly supported the Whitewater community and UW-Whitewater Athletics over the last several years," Head Men's Basketball Coach Pat Miller said. "He was a kind, generous man and a wonderful ambassador of our team and our university. My family and our program are devastated by this loss, and our hearts go out to Lucas' family and friends."
 
Burns, a graduate of Janesville Craig High School, was a part of two Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championships and two NCAA Tournament appearance, including the program's third-ever national title in 2012. He played in 30 games in 2011-12, including two as a starter, averaging 2.5 points per game and shooting 48 percent from 3-point range.
 
Burns was the owner and operator of 841 Brewhouse in Whitewater. The bar and restaurant is a corporate partner of UW-Whitewater Athletics and a supporter of several fundraising initiatives and events.