Robert Leroy Bruns

Bob Bruns, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born on February 9, 1938, in Stanley, North Dakota, Bob was the cherished son of John and Madeline Bruns. His early years were spent in the heart of North Dakota, where he developed a love for community and storytelling that would define his life.

Bob graduated from Hannaford High School in 1956, and it was during this year that he also married the love of his life, Dolly, on November 30th in Dazey, North Dakota. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey of 70 years, raising four children—Greg, Rob, Rich, and Shelly—and creating countless memories filled with love and laughter.

Bob pursued higher education at Morehead State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. This academic achievement laid the foundation for a distinguished career at the U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO), where he served as a Senior Evaluator/Auditor for over 30 years. Known for his meticulous work and integrity, Bob was instrumental in evaluating federal government programs and expenditures, including those related to health care and the Alaska earthquake relief in 1964. After retirement, he continued to share his expertise with Washington Automated, providing invaluable accounting and bookkeeping support.

A man of many passions, Bob thoroughly enjoyed coaching his children in baseball and basketball, later becoming their proud cheerleader as they pursued high school and collegiate athletics. He was an avid supporter of Seattle sports teams, including the Huskies, Seahawks, Mariners, and Supersonics, embodying the spirit of a true fan. His love for golf was unwavering, often playing rounds alone to savor the game at his own pace.

Bob's humor and warm smile were legendary, always ready with a joke or a story from his childhood days in Hannaford. He had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued, and his kindness and generosity left an indelible mark on all who knew him. His natural ability to connect with people was evident in how he could easily find fellow North Dakotans, striking up conversations with ease and genuine interest.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Dolly, their four children and spouses Greg (Cindi), Rob, Rich (Tammy), Shelly (Eric), and his sister, Audrey. He leaves behind nine grandchildren—Colton, Damon, Mandi, Shawna, Nathin, Ashly, Hailey, Jacob, Daniel—who will forever cherish his legacy, along with nine great-grandchildren—Finn, Ronnie, Burke, Sienna, Ellie, Lexie, Declan, Noah, Rowan—who brought him immense joy in his later years. He was predeceased by his parents, his sisters Lorraine and Mary, and brothers John Jr. (Dean), Gerald (Giggs), Raymond (Butch), and Duane (Punky).

A celebration of Bob's life will be held on November 6, 2026, at 10am at Saint Francis Aquinas Catholic Church at 13720 W Thomas Road, Avondale, AZ. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Mayo Clinic Phoenix and Hospice of the Valley for their compassionate care during Bob's final days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Mayo Clinic Phoenix in Bob's honor.

Bob Bruns will be remembered as a man of integrity, warmth, and boundless love, forever in our hearts.