Tony W. Bruns

Tony W. Bruns, Sr., of Port Clinton, OH, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, caring father, respected mechanic, and faithful friend, Tony will be remembered for his boundless generosity, calming wisdom, Dad-Joke humor, his “no-nonsense” outlook on life, and his unwavering dedication to his family and loved ones.

Born on July 22, 1938, in Woodville, OH, to parents Arthur F. and Dorothy L. (Holfelder) Bruns.

Tony served in the Navy from 1956 to 1959 as a 2nd Class Petty Officer, working on airplanes, and was honorably discharged after completing his three years of service. Tony developed a strong affinity for working with his hands and excelled as a skilled handyman and journeyman, demonstrating expertise in all aspects of mechanics, construction, woodworking, plumbing, and electrical work. His mechanical skills and natural abilities in people and leadership served him well as he climbed the corporate ladder at Machinery Builders, Inc., from 1966 to 1978, where he became Plant Supervisor and oversaw all aspects of plant operations. In 1998, Tony retired as the Maintenance Supervisor of the Teledyne factory in Toledo, Ohio, after 19 years.

In his personal life, Tony enjoyed fishing on the weekends on his boat with his beloved wife, Josephine (Dodie), on Lake Erie. He also enjoyed playing the guitar and singing gospel hymns, patriotic songs, and old country and western songs. Tony gave back to the community every Wednesday night for decades, playing the guitar and singing at various local nursing homes in the Toledo area.

Tony was a man of few words, but when he spoke, it was always with meaning. His laughter, especially when watching old comedies or telling one of his “famous Dad-Jokes,” was warm and contagious. A lifelong learner, he spent his retirement years reading the newspaper and just about anything else he could get his hands on.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Josephine (Dodie) Bruns (Birtwhistle); his adoring children, Tony Jr., Brent, Melissa (Matt), Scott (Rose); eight grandchildren, Olivia, Chase, Owen, Nathan, Oliver, Olsen, Ellis, and Calvin. He also leaves behind his sister Joyce, a close-knit group of friends, and many extended family members who loved him dearly.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Dorothy; and brother, Edward, “Bud”.

A memorial service to honor Tony’s life will be held at Calvary Lutheran Church on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 1930 Bradner Road, in Northwood, Ohio, at 11 am, with a reception to follow. Family, friends, and colleagues are invited to attend and share stories that reflect the life and legacy of a man who always gave more than he asked in return.

Tony Warren Bruns, Sr., was a quiet but powerful force of goodness. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know and love him. His after-dinner catch-phrase, “What’s for Dee-Zert?” will live on in the hearts of his family and will be passed on to their future generations.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you please donate to The Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center, Judith and Richard Kinzel Campus, 417 Quarry Lakes Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870.