Gary K. Bruns

Gary K. Bruns, 81 of Smithton, IL, formerly of Millstadt, IL, passed away peacefully on Friday July 10, 2026, in Mascoutah, IL. Gary was born on August 14, 1944, in Belleville, IL to Kenneth and Ruth (Vogel) Bruns. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather Edward Coker, his sister Barb (the late Ray) Mank, and his brother, Kent Bruns.

Gary enlisted in the U.S. Army reserves immediately after graduating high school and bravely served his country during the Vietnam Era. Upon his return to civilian life, he worked for his uncle at Bruns Automotive. He then began a 33-year career at Meyer Brothers Pontiac until his retirement. He then went to work at Lee’s Home Center in Millstadt and stayed for the next 20 years.

Gary was most recently a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Smithton, IL and previously was a member of St. James Catholic Church in Millstadt, IL. In his spare time, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle. Gary’s favorite hobby was woodworking, and he created many fine pieces of furniture over the years. His skills as a baker will be remembered for the delicious, decorated sugar cookies he would make for the holidays. Most important to Gary was his family and the time he spent with them. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle and dear friend of many.

Left to cherish his memory are his sons: Travis (Jodi) Bruns, Brad (Jennifer) Bruns and Matt (Margaret) Bruns; his grandchildren: Tyler Bruns, Anna Olsson, Noah Bruns, Madison Bruns, Hannah Yancey, Conner Bruns, Austin Bruns, Samantha Bruns and Greta Bruns; his siblings: David (Chris) Bruns, Joel (Jackie) Bruns, Craig (Kaye) Bruns and his sister-in-law, Diana Bruns in addition to many nieces, nephews, extended family and beloved friends.

Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday August 1, 2026, from 9:00am-11:00am at Hoffen Funeral Home, 220 W. Washington St. Millstadt, IL. Memorial services will follow at 11:00am at the funeral home with Fr. Evaristus Akabueze, Celebrant. Inurnment will follow at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Smithton, IL.

Memorial contributions in memory of Gary K. Bruns may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital online at www.stjude.org or envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.