William J. Bruning (Bill) of Olathe, KS passed away on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at the age of 89.
Bill was born November 23, 1935, in Omaha, NE. to William G. Bruning and Mary Florence (Livingston) Bruning.
Bill was a graduate of Creighton Prep, class of 1953. Bill furthered his education at Creighton University School of Business, class of 1957. He was a proud, lifelong Bluejay fan. Bill served in the United States Army Reserves. He was a commercial underwriter for Travelers Insurance for 35 years, retiring in 1995.
Bill married "the prettiest woman he'd ever seen", Ann Marie (Reznicek) Bruning in 1960. As an only child, Bill had always wanted to have a large family. Together, Bill and Ann had 6 children. He was a devoted husband and father. Bill and Ann were married 45 years. Bill lovingly cared for Ann until her final days. They were founding members of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and later was an active member of St Paul's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and Meals on Wheels volunteer.
In 2007 Bill married Sharon (Fleming) Bruning. Bill continued to remain young at heart and enjoyed her companionship and traveling together. Bill selflessly cared for Sharon during her final days.
He loved adventures, and in younger days would load the family into the station wagon for ski, canoe and cross country trips. He was proud to have completed RAGBRAI (bike ride across Iowa) three times! Bill enjoyed being physically active, participated in 10K runs, was a golf marshal, walking with his dog, and always pushed himself to get to the gym into his late 80's.
Bill cherished time with his family and hosting game nights. He was a fun competitor whether he was playing cards, pool, croquet, dominos or Chinese Checkers. He was always in the hunt for the family trophy! Bill was also an avid Kanas City Royals and Chiefs fan.
Bill was kind and thankful for the smallest things. He made it easy to want to be around him. Bill was always a gentleman and a gracious host, making everyone welcome in his home. He was also a lifelong Catholic, and carried a deep faith that he passed along to his family. He offered his sufferings to Christ and never complained.
He was preceded in death by his first wife Ann (2005) and his second wife Sharon (2019).
Bill is survived by his children and their spouses. Suzanne (Ernest) Kary, Jeffrey (Shannon) Bruning, Gregory (Beth) Bruning, Rev. William Bruning, Linda (Peter) Hodges, Amy (Michael) Bartkoski. His 15 grandchildren: Christine, Cathy, Cindy, Rachel, Ali, Danny, Sam, Luke, Joe, Annie, Nick, Andy, Katie, Michael and Anna. 10 great grand children with 2 on the way. As well as many extended family and friends.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions Blessed Brian Home Orphanage in India or iCare Ministries, Inc
Visitation will be from 6:30-8:00 PM, Tuesday, September 30th, 2025, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, with a Rosary at 7:40 PM. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 AM, Wednesday, October 1, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church 11300 W. 103rd, Overland Park, KS 66214, Burial in Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, KS.