Obituary of Richard A. Bruning

Richard A. Bruning, 82, passed away on June 7, 2022 peacefully in his home in Melbourne Beach. To look back on Rich’s life one would find a life well-lived. He was born on May 8, 1940 in Queens, New York to August Henry and Camille Joesphine Bruning (nee Perticaro). He was a loving father and his first dedication was to his children. He will forever be remembered as a generous and steadfast husband, father, and friend with a kind heart sheathed beneath a strong exterior and whose talents knew no limits.

Across his many decades, he could be found sailing, skiing, scuba diving, spear fishing, farming, horseback riding, and gardening, among many other pursuits that defined a gregarious spirit much younger than his physical years. Those close to him might say he was decent cook, a better dancer, a seasoned sailor, and a charming man who told great stories. A few years ago, as the story goes, he was pulled over by a very nice police officer for speeding, while riding his bicycle home from work.

Rich never stopped learning, building, and exploring. His life was filled with a wide range of adventures, friends, and skills. Rich was an accomplished autodidact whose college degree in History was just the start. He had more than 40 years of experience in aerospace materials and processes engineering and he was awarded Certificates of Excellence from Northrop Grumman, The Boeing Company, and Fairchild Republic. In his later years he continued to be unflinchingly hard working and was known to be able to fix almost anything, and it was usually meticulously overbuilt.

He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years Stephnie Palasinski, his children Amalia Bruning (Stephen), Edward Bruning (Debbie), Elizabeth Bruning (Stephen), Christina Bruning (Jeff) Andrew Bruning (Paula), Michael Remo, Steve Remo (Lisa), Margaret Bruning (David), Kathryn Bruning (Kraig), Jessica Bruning, his grandchildren Emily, Eric (Aida), Jake, Andrew (Jenna), Rachel, Charles, and Sofia, and his brother Arthur A. Bruning (Stella).

He was a devoted active member and thrift store volunteer of Holy Name of Jesus Church, where he will be dearly missed. A funeral service is scheduled for 11am on June 24, 2022 at Holy Name Jesus in Indiatalantic, followed by a reception. Rich’s wish is that his friends and family celebrate his life together with laughter and good food. Flowers are welcome. Donations in Rich’s name may be made to Habitat for Humanity.