Wendell Brunner

Schodack N.Y.

Brunner, Wendell E

Wendell E. Brunner 91, passed away after a short illness on Tuesday March 10, 2015 at Albany Medical Center in Albany he was 13 days shy of age 92. Wendell was born in Howard, South Dakota to the late Daniel and Georgia (Smith) Brunner. Wendell graduated from CBA in 1940 and enlisted in the US Army on 14 Jan 43 where he proudly served for over 3 years. He was stationed State side and then shipped overseas to Germany as an MP. But as all soldiers are aware, every soldier is an Infantryman when the need exists. Wendell served in WWII at a time where actions spoke louder than words, and he felt it was his duty to serve his country. Honorably discharged from the Army on 27 Feb 46, Wendell worked at a few jobs but finally ended up in the Anti-Corrosive learning the trade of machinist. To hone his skills Wendell and family moved to Connecticut twice, where he sharpened his skills as a machinist and eventually returned to NY. He went to work for the Atlantic Cement Co in Ravena where he worked for the rest of his working career till finally retiring at age of 72. His expertise and skills as a machinist soon earned him the respect of his peers and was known as one of the top machinists in the area. He was often called upon by other machine shops to assist in difficult tooling and machining.

The family would especially like to thank all of Wendell’s long time fellow workers and friends from the Atlantic Cement/Blue Circle Cement Co in Ravena for their friendship and support throughout the years. You all were instrumental to our lives as well as Dads. He had many friends and many good stories. He raised his sons during difficult years and was both Mom & Dad since 1961. We quickly learned how to cook, clean, do laundry and iron. Wendell’s main priority was his Boys. He was a true old school family man with old school values. Wendell enjoyed spending time with his 6 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren which he was proud of them all. He enjoyed antique autos, auto racing at Fonda, Nascar racing, trout fishing and turning metal on his lathe to make something. Wendell also was a pet lover and had many outstanding dogs as companions that he loved dearly. From Schnauzers to Doberman Pinchers Wendell loved all dogs especially his dogs Shep, Abu, Mickey and his last Schnauzer Buddy and all loved him in return.

In addition to his parents Wendell is predeceased by his Brother George R Brunner and his son Kevin W Brunner. Wendell is survived by his son Daniel E (Joanne) Brunner of Castleton, NY and also the brother of Connie (Brunner) Stammel of Castleton NY. He is the Beloved grandfather of Adam (Marci) Brunner, Jason (Penny) Brunner, Bernadette (Tony) Hazzard, Amy (William) Fink, Daniel (Erin) Brunner, Carrie (Jason) Coffey. Also Survived by 17 Great Grandchildren Alysia and Andrew Brunner, Jessica, Danielle and Cameron Brunner, Brittany and Sarah Hazzard, Abby and Evan Fink, Kayla Mosall, Madison, Ava and Sophia Brunner and Alexis, Emily, Melanie and Abigail Coffey. Also survived by one Niece and Three Nephews.

He was a loving father, Grandfather, and great grandfather and will be greatly missed by all. Our wishes are that you are reunited with your Mom, Dad, brother and son. We all will love you and keep your memories deep inside our hearts.

Funeral Services will be Monday Morning at 11:00AM at the Rays Funeral Home, 59 Seaman Ave, Castleton NY. Calling hours will be on Sunday from 2:00Pm to 5:00PM. Interment will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery on Old Post Rd in Castleton.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave., Menands, NY 12204-2718, in Wendell’s name.

Ray Funeral Service, Inc.
59 Seaman Ave.
Castleton, NY 12033
(518)732-7663

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