Donald Brunie

During life's journey we are blessed to know special people that touch our hearts. Donald Eugene Brunie was one of those people. On August 15, 2009 Don said his final goodbye to those that loved him with the same strength and courage he exhibited in life. His 6 year battle with cancer was fought with dignity, faith, hope and love. His determination, positive attitude and loving spirit were remarkable. He took his strength from the undying love and tireless support of his beloved wife Carol. He was the youngest son of the late William and Blanche (Buckley) Brunie born on December 1, 1925 in Alliance, Ohio He is survived by his wife, Carol (Ollson) Brunie whom he married May 29, 1954 and with whom he recently celebrated 55 years of marriage. Survived by sister Ruth Abbuhl of Canton; sister-in-law Dorothy Brunie of Alliance; nieces and nephew: Sondra Esporite and Nancy (Armand) Lenarz of North Canton; Joanne Wright of Alliance; Susan (George) Hays of Sebring; Barbara (David) Alban of Plano, Texas; and Dr. James (Vera) Brunie of Canton; six great nieces and four great nephews and numerous great-great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, William and Robert, sister, Dorothy (Brunie) Smith, and great nephews Hughie Brunie, Ray Wright and Armand Lenarz II. After graduating from Alliance High School in 1944, he was drafted and proudly served his country in World War II in the U.S. Army. Don was a First Scout under General George Patton with Company I 347, 87th Division in the European Theater. He received the Purple Heart and was honorably discharged in 1946. Don lived his life with a strong sense of work ethic, integrity and honor. Following his service to our nation, Don started his career in purchasing with the Duchess Company in Alliance and retired as President and General Manager from Miller Holzwarth, Inc. of Salem in December 1989. Don was an “idea man” and loved to figure out how to do things better. He would have been a terrific engineer. He held many patents for his creative endeavors in manufacturing. He was honored that so many of his previous employees continued to remember him and stay in contact through the years following his retirement. Don was a life member of the Alliance Chapter of the D.A.V. and was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Alliance. His hobbies included home remodeling, wood working, gardening and antiquing. He enjoyed his home and took great pride in what he and Carol created. The family wishes to thank the following individuals for their caring hands and loving hearts: Dr. James Schmotzer and the staff of Morningstar; Dr. Edward Martin and staff at the James Cancer Center, Ohio State University; Dr. Victor Fazio and Dr. Abraham Levitin at the Cleveland Clinic; and the many doctors and care staff at Aultman and Alliance Hospitals. Your expertise and care of Don, and your kindness and support for the family, was greatly appreciated. Honoring his wishes, private family services were held on Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at Gednetz-Ruzek Funeral Home, with entombment in the mausoleum at Highland Memorial Park. Condolences may be sent to the Brunie Family at P.O. Box 247, Sebring, Ohio 44672. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Northeast Regional Office, 525 N. Broad St, Canfield, OH 44406 or the American Diabetes Association, 1815 West Market Street, Suite 108, Akron, OH, 44313. Don will be remembered for his strong will, humor, compassion and wisdom. He had a profound effect on all the lives he touched and will be sadly missed by all. "WE NEVER LOSE THE ONES WE LOVE THEY LIVE ON IN OUR HEARTS." Friends may send condolences or sign the guest book at www.grfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Gednetz-Ruzek Funeral Home, Sebring, Ohio.

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