Gary J. Brunner

Gary J. Brunner, 62, of Angora passed away peacefully at home on Monday, March 14, 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born on July 2, 1953 in Virginia, the son of Kenneth and Agnes (Rauch) Brunner. He grew up in Cook where he was a lifelong resident. He married Denise Heem, his best friend of 27 years on February 27, 2015 in Virginia. His first job was at Johnson's One Stop in Cook, where he honed his skills at small engine repair. Gary graduated from Cook High School in 1971. He was a well known talented mechanic with a specialty in small engines, whether it was snowmobiles to motorcycles, or boat motors to lawn mowers. Throughout the years he worked for other businesses and owned a few of his own, some of both were: Ashawa Accessories, Up North Marine and Bill Gruska Construction. He started GJB trucking in 2005, then added Earth Effects Contracting in 2007-which he was currently operating. He had a passion for motor sports, including snowmobiling and motorcycle riding. He also was an avid hunter and an ardent Twins Fan. He had an incredible work ethic and a great sense of humor that will be missed by all.

He is preceded in death by his mother Agnes Brunner (2006); maternal grandparents Anthony and Josephine Rauch and his paternal grandparents, Julius and Agnes Brunner.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife, Denise of Angora; father Kenneth "Kenny" (Betty Thompson) Brunner of Cook; 2 sons: Paul (Shelly) Brunner of Virginia, and Logan Hoche of Mt Iron; 2 brothers, Gene (Kim) Brunner and Dale (Connie) Brunner, both of Cook; 1 sister: Gail (Mike Gwash) Brunner of Mt Iron; aunts and uncles, Florence and Linus Brunner, Tommie and Helen Rauch, Bob Rauch and Gwili Brunner; along with numerous special nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and many friends.

SERVICES: A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am Friday, (March 18th) at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Cook. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Father Drew Braun will be the celebrant. A reception in Gary's honor will follow in the church social hall after the service. Burial will be held at a later date in the Cook Community Cemetery. To sign the online guest book or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit: www. mlakerfuneralhome.com .