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Larry Bruns Obituary
Larry Lee Bruns
Larry was a devoted Boeing employee for over 43 years when illness prompted his retirement. He was a loyal member of The International Association of Machinists, Local 751 for 30 years.
He lived life always thinking of everyone but himself. He lived by the theory of "Treat others as you would have them treat you" all the while teaching everyone he encountered that it was a wonderful way to live and with that he built friendships too numerous to count.
He is survived by his loving family; wife, Marilyn; sons, Jeremy (Andrea), Joshua (Kris) and Matthew (Holly); grandchildren, Jayden, Jenna, Mikaela, Hayley and Jack; sister, Joan Ronning (Dave); brother, Bill (Stella); sister, Anita Winkley (Elmer) and twin sister, Linda Kwant (Allen); mother-in-law, Irene Houghton; sister-in-law, Shirley Lewis (Dwight); brother-in-law, Richard Houghton; and aunts, Jurina Westphal and Eleanor Blair.
A Celebration for Larry will be held at 1:00 p.m., on October 17, 2009, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 7215 51st Avenue NE, Marysville, Washington.
We all know about Larry's love of the color purple, so if you own purple, please wear it in honor of a very Special Man.
Donations in Larry's Honor may be sent to Providence Hospice, 2731 Wetmore Ave., Suite 500, Everett, Washington 98201.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Larry Bruns
Ryan Brown
October 3, 2024
Every year on this day, my heart gets ripped from my body as I remember you as a fantastic person, a loving father and husband, and one of the best friends I ever had. I hope you continue to rest in peace. We all miss you greatly.
Tony Russo
October 28, 2009
Larry was a very Good and Caring person and will be missed by anyone that knew or worked with him. So many people were inspired and learned from him . He always would help others and always treated everyone with respect. We have lost another great soul. God Bless you LARRY.
Loretta Guerrazzi
October 23, 2009
I knew Larry because I worked in the office at Boeing many, many years ago. I enjoyed talking with Larry. We turned in a few suggestions together and even got paid on one that I remember. My prayers are with all of Larry's family.
Andrea Piperissa
October 21, 2009
Hi Marilyn, I know you will trust me if I tell you that I'm very sorry. Keep going on the way he always did.
Andrea Piperissa (Rome, Italy)
Bret Baylor
October 19, 2009
I worked for Larry back in 2000 in Quality Assurance, and I remember him as a very compassionate person. He gave me advice and showed great kindness that helped me through a very difficult time in my life, and I will never forget him. He was not just a fellow employee, but a very valuable friend. I am so deeply saddened by his passing. My God be with his family to ease their pain during this very trying time. He is in a better place, and it is those who knew him who suffer because he will be sorely missed. God bless you Larry!
Bill Bruns
October 18, 2009
To My "Little Brother". I and Stella will miss you so very much. Your smiling face, your scense of humour, practical jokes, your being there whenever I wanted a friend to talk to. The thought of your no longer being part of my day is heartbreaking. I will always cherish having you as my little brother, my friend, my idol and roll model for us all. You have left this world with three loving and wonderful sons, Jeremy, Josh & Matt. We will always be there for them and thier families, my promise to you. Rest in peace my brother, "LOVE YA", now and always. Your Brother, (BRO), Bill and Stella
Ron Ball
October 17, 2009
Sorry for Your loss. It's been many years since I last saw Larry. I also went to the Old Sunnyside School.
Dave and Christa Sauvageau
October 17, 2009
So sorry for your lost Marilyn. I worked with Larry for many years, he was always a very thoughtful person and will be missed. Our condolences
Marvin McGhan
October 17, 2009
I consider myself one of the lucky ones, as I had the privilage of knowing and working with Lare for 30 of my 35 years with Boeing. When you were with Larry it was easy to learn how to do things the right way. All you had to do was stand back and watch how he did it and follow his example.
Thank you Larry.
Chris Barriball
October 16, 2009
Marilyn,
That wonderful man of yours will truly be missed. He was blessed with the gift of being one of the most sincere persons I have ever met. His always smiling face and inspiring words and of course, his ever giving kindness. After Dave introduced me to you and Larry, (I had been invited to your home for dinner,) I could'nt help but think what a loving man he was to you.
I was sick with a cold one day just before xmas and feeling rather low, there was a knock on my door and there was Larry holding a beautiful xmas plant from you and he. It made my day! The day Dave, Barb and I met you guys at the "FlipnFloppin". I will never forget how funny that was. He was such a wonderfully funny man! God Bless you and your family.
Sharon (Dale) Schank
October 16, 2009
I went to school with Larry and remember him well. I also worked at Boeing and ran into him once in awhile in the factory before I retired. He was the same as I remembered him in High School, always smiling. My thoughts go out to you Marilyn and your family in this very sad time.
Linda Olson
October 16, 2009
Larry was a friend & mentor who I had the utmost respect for. I worked with Larry for many years and I will miss him so much. My condolences to his family, he was truly a gem.
Marcia Solberg
October 16, 2009
Marilyn and family, i was so very saddened when Zita called to tell me of Larry's passing. He was such a wonderful, loving and giving man. I will always remember one specific time when he became my supervisor in Quality just at the same time I lost my husband Ben, when i came back from that loss, Larry was so kind and caring for someone who he had not even met yet, me. He always told me that if i needed to talk, he would be there----and he was---always! I will miss him dearly, but he gave us all something to hang on to---he gave us "himself". That will always be the most giving gift to all of us. I will miss him so very much, but i will never forget his smiley face, his cute jokes, and his wonderful giving spirit. My sincere condolences.
Marcia (Wright) Solberg
Bob and Shaney Riley
October 15, 2009
Larry was a great man and loved by many, he will be greatly missed...
Our hearts are with you during this time
Don Ditmeyer
October 15, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time of grief. I knew Larry for several years and he was always willing to help.
LaVerne Grove
October 15, 2009
Marilyn, Linda & Family,
I was a classmate since the old sunnyside elementary school, we were the last 6th graders to graduate from our three room school. We share the same month birthdays only Larry & Linda are 5 days my senior. I've enjoyed being able to keep in touch, and see you from time to time. I'm definately going to miss the pleasant smile and nature about Larry that he always had when I would see him. I love you Marilyn & Linda and most definately LARRY. My prayers go with all of the family. God speed Larry.
Jim Moreschi trying Larry's patience with just one more question,,
Jim Moreschi
October 15, 2009
To Larry's extended family,
Without exception, Larry "loved his job"!
But, that wasn't the entire picture; he had great respect for his fellow workers, as well; from the newly hired inspector, struggling to make sense of a process, to the best dressed airline customer, whom he had the 'pleasure' to coordinate with - he gave time for anyone who would ask him.
In my own personal experience, coming to Larry, in my capacity as a Boeing instructor for Quality and wrestling with some unknown job function, to a document interpretation that caused much puzzelment, he never shyed away from the task to clarify the issue at hand which I presented to him.
It must give all of you pause to think that this gracious and caring man is now receiving his "Well Done" from his number one Boss.
My condolences to the entire family on your loss.
Douglas /Linda Robinson
October 14, 2009
our prayers and thoughts are with you we will all miss you.
Diane Andrews
October 14, 2009
Marilyn,
My heart felt sorrow at your loss. Larry loved you so much. May our God of Peace, Jesus Christ bring you all comfort and a joy of having been blessed by his life. You are all in my thought and prayers - especially Jeremy, Josh and Matt - it saddens me to know you lost your father way too soon. Grace and peace to you - Joanne, Bill, Anita and Linda as well as all the neices and nephews.
Don & Linda Guenthner
October 14, 2009
Larry:
You are loved and missed by many!
Linda vividly recalls you and Marilyn playing Bingo on your wedding day at Highland where she worked and managed.I recall meeting you nearly eight years ago at N.Everett Lions Bingo where you graciously welcomed me into Linda's life.
Most of all we will both miss your infectious smile and the twinkle in your eyes, and of course your positive attitude.
God speed and be with you on your final journey!
Don & Linda
Don Caldwell
October 14, 2009
We spent many years working together on the 747's in Final Assy. It was a pleasure working with him. He will be greatly missed.
Kari Kwant
October 13, 2009
"Perhaps they are not stars in the sky,
but rather openings where our loved ones
shine down to let us know they are happy."
~ author unknown
Uncle Larry was and will always be a favorite uncle of mine. He always had a smile and a hug when I saw him. I am so glad we got back in touch even if just for a little while. I read something the other day that made me think of him...it said, "If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever". That was so true... I was so proud to see so much love around him. Uncle Larry will live on with the smiles, love, and laughter he left behind with us. I look forward to his hugs and one liners again one day.
I will miss you Uncle Larry. Thanks for the smiles and for showing us how it's done. Oh, and thanks for the sunset, it was beautiful.
Dave Parsons
October 13, 2009
Larry was a friend and co-worker at Boeing. We worked together on the 747's for many years. We could always count on Larry in good times and bad. He will be greatly missed.
Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Lisa Bailey
October 13, 2009
Marilyn, One of my fondest memories of the both of you is from about 30 years ago. I was a young person and you took me skiing for my first time up at Stevens Pass. You were gracious and patient as you taught me how to ski, and you planted a seed for many years of skiing fun in my life.
Know that I am continuing to pray for Jesus to be your Prince of Peace and Mighty God, bringing you comfort that only he can bring. Love you!
October 13, 2009
Dear Maw, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Lar was an exceptional man. It was our pleasure to have known his smile, his kindness and his laughter. He loved you lots.
All our love, again. Marvin, Ellen, Shawn, Heather Finch and families
Joan Nepple-Ward
October 13, 2009
Marilyn,
I can not fathom how much you miss him,
having 29 wonderful years with the most Godly, tender, sincere, kind, loving and Adoring Husband??!!!
Know that you are in my prayers!!
Jan Pitts
October 13, 2009
Larry: was an great person with the Boeing Co. It was good to work around him. R.I.P.
Kirsten Brown
October 13, 2009
I hope you were holding your son's hands; you had the love of your life in your heart and peace in your mind. I will miss you, Always.
Linda Zuver (Calkins)
October 13, 2009
My prayers and thoughts are with you in your time of grief. I graduated with Larry and Linda from Marysville High. It is sad to see the passing of a classmate.
Tom Sundown
October 13, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Deepest sympathies and my thoughts and prayers are with Larry's family in their time of grief.
Darryl Philmlee
October 12, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Erniem & Linda Stewart
October 12, 2009
Ernie & I have only known Lare for the last 7 years, but it was like we had known him all our lives. He was such a wonderful, caring, loving man.
We will always remember him, and so very glad he was in our lives for such a short time.
You will be missed and always loved.
Shirley Ditch
October 12, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Steve & Norma Mchuff's
October 12, 2009
We had a Christmas party this last year.. We were so pleased to see him show up in the 3 ft of snow we had.....
He surely enjoyed the party and requested to be invited again this year...
Well buddy we are still inviting you and we hope you'll look over us all with that infectious smile and laugh...
Take care our friend we will miss you…
Greg Passey
October 12, 2009
It is always such a shock when someone so good leaves us so early. Larry was one of those people.He had a warmth that could lighten up your day no matter what.He touched so many people and is greatly missed. We will see him again someday and he'll make us laugh again. Heaven's fun meter just went up a notch.
Chuck Frye
October 12, 2009
I am one of the numerous people who had the pleasure of working with him, it truly was a pleasure.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. We are left with wonderful memories of a very nice man.
Chuck Frye, Boeing retiree
DeMotte Case
October 12, 2009
Larry was a man I was proud to point to as a fellow Boeing employee. We would all be better off with more people like him in this world. He took time to help wherever he saw need, and did it with kindness and grace. He is missed.
Fred and Chris Wikstrom
October 12, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Robert Beecher
October 12, 2009
Larry was like a brother to most of us here at Boeing, we valued his opinion and respected his decisions. Larry was a true freind to everyone. I have worked with Larry for 25 years of my carrer. he would stop and do anything for anyone. I will miss him and he will always stay in my memory for ever.
Dorothyand Leon Maikowskij
October 11, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Monte Pfeil
October 11, 2009
Larry I first met you on the 747 Program and was impressed with you then. As we both grew with the Boeing Company I learned to respect you as an Individual and a caring person. You always had an attitude of what can I do to help you and I will do it. You will always be a Friend and in my memory Forever. My Prayers are with you and your Loving Family.
Bob & Arlene Burnham
October 11, 2009
So sorry for your lost. We knew Larry from camping at KOA. Our prayers are with his family.
Jeff Haws
October 11, 2009
Larry was an exceptional man, fun to work with and always a caring friend. At work, it didn't matter how difficult the task, Larry had a way of getting things done. My condolences to his family. He will be truly missed by all that knew him.
Beverly Wiedmeier
October 11, 2009
To all of my cousins at this time of loss, we all share in the sorrow it brings. I am just glad he is at peace and joining all of our family that has gone before him. He was a real asset to our family with his sense of humor and happy go lucky attitude.
Mike (Sully) Sullivan
October 11, 2009
Larry was a very good friend and coworker. I went to school with him years ago and he never lost his smile and his chance to make you smile. He will be missed by all that new him and loved him.Take care my friend and keep the infectious smile and humor you have shared with us all.
Stacy Collins
October 10, 2009
Larry is my Uncle and he will be missed very much. I will miss the smile on his face and that twinkle in his eye and yes his funny little comments to get a laugh outta you when you least exspect it.
Love you Uncle Larry.
David Moulton
October 10, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jo & Tamber
October 10, 2009
Papa, as we affectionately called him was the best of the best. He was loving, caring and supportive to whomever he came in contact with. We will miss the good times going on our camping trips, casino runs and all the holidays we were able to spend with him in the past 9 years. Papa would always would say "BUY TWO" you never know when you or someone else might need one. Papa we will love and miss you forever. Your adopted daughters, Jo & Tamber.
Marilyn Bruns
October 10, 2009
God is the lucky one now. Lare will always be my soulmate. The memories he left behind for his family and friends will help us all.
Negative was not in Lare's vocabulary. He was one of a kind and I was so fortunate to spend 29 years with him.
Sleep safe and watch over all of us Honey Bruns.
Ditto
Ryan Brown
October 10, 2009
He knows that he was loved more than most.
He gave so much and asked for nothing other than your trust and affection.
When my time comes I hope I can be as brave.
I miss you Larry...
Ryan Brown
October 10, 2009
He left us knowing that he was loved more than most.
He gave so much and asked for nothing other than our trust and affection.
When my time comes I hope I can be as brave.
I miss you Larry...
Ryan
Al Landin
October 10, 2009
I knew Larry since the 70's, he was a good guy and the friendship over the years is appreciated. He was what alot of us would say, a great Boeing family member. My heart goes out to his family and friends, I pray that they are comforted by the memories of him.
John Dyas
October 10, 2009
Larry was my lead at work. We have his picture with his motto "I love my job" on the wall over my right shoulder. I'm flying his desk now, so when I get into a pinch I just look over my shoulder and see his smile and I repeat to myself, I love my jooooob....
Stephen Bickler
October 10, 2009
The following was, in part, an email I sent to Larry's niece upon hearing from her that Larry had gone Home. I think it best expresses how Larry touched my life.
"Michelle,
"No "apologies" from me. I rejoice in knowing I will see my (our) brother (in the Lord) once again, for eternity!
"I expect he is "fiddling" for Jesus about now - I would think, knowing Larry, that it was thus, rather than a violin.
"What a joy it must be to do a command performance for the Conductor, in person!
"For those he has left behind - family and friends - my prayer for them is that they will "know" the same Joy that Larry does! I do know that he touched many lives at the Boeing Company! Mine amongst them!
"Thank you so very much for keeping me in the loop on your uncle. He is one of the "special" people who have impacted my life! He had a lot to do with making me a better inspector while I worked with/around him (almost twenty years)! He was never critical but rather always quick to: direct, council, demonstrate, and give praise when he interacted with me (and all those that I saw him interact with)!
"His was the last handshake (followed by the requisite hug!) that I received on my last day at Boeing - the day I retired (Sept. 28, 2007)! I expected nothing less, from him! (He always managed to let you know that you were important, to him)
"Thank you, Michelle, so much, for sharing your uncles last days in this world with me." (through email updates)
Larry knows that I love him, as a brother. I want you, his family and friends, to know that He was a very special person in my life. I give praise to our Heavenly Father for that friendship and the knowledge that I will see my friend once again.
- Stephen A. Bickler, Currently 'teaching' in China
October 10, 2009
I am proud to say that I am Larry's
cousin & will miss "our smiling funny
little guy" terribly. Ever since I can
remember, he was always laughing & joking & constanty entertaining our whole family with his merriment.
May he rest in eternal peace now.
BJ Anne Miller
Bellingham
Chuck Drake
October 10, 2009
I remember Larry as liking very thing in its place. When you opened is desk drawer it had very thing just so. One of the things that I would do, if he wasn’t at his desk, is I would open his drawer real fast three or four time. Then set around the corner until he came back just to hear him yell.
He had a wall clock that he would make sure the second hand would be on the 12 when the whistle blows. I found out if I pulled the stem the changed the time it would move the second hand back 15 seconds. Then you would see Larry taking the clock apart. Good times
Anita Winkley
October 9, 2009
LARRY,you were the best little brother
in the world. I will forever miss our
time together, your cute little remarks, and your smiling face. The time we have spent together these past months has meant so, so much to me. I wish it would have been under different circumstances. But at least we got to spend lots and lots of time together, and for that I am very greatful. I LOVE YOU LITTLE BROTHER.
Linda Kwant
October 9, 2009
Larry is my twin brother and I shall forever hold his love and tender caring ways in my heart. I love and miss him more than words can ever express. It has been my honor to assist supporting and caring for him during these difficult months. I will always miss his wonderful one liners that came out of nowhere.
I love you Dear Brother, forever.
We shall forever be "Wombmates".
Michelle Birchim
October 9, 2009
Larry was a sincerely gentle man, he always cared about others. He gave so much of himslf to others. I worked with him and learned so much from him. He will be missed but remembered. He has gone home and is now at peace. Rest, my friend.
Norma McDaniel
October 9, 2009
I will miss your thoughtfulness and smile. You were a great friend.
Nick Newman
October 9, 2009
What a tremendous loss for our Boeing family. Larry has done so much for so many. I'll always be indebted to my friend for his unselfish manner in which he helped me personally many years back. What a great guy for a friend and confidant. I will miss his smile and his hard handshake. His friendship meant so much and he will forever be in my heart.
Kendall Nolan
October 9, 2009
Larry was a great co-worker but more importantly a great friend who I respected and learned a lot from. He was an inspiration to many of us and a true example for all of us to follow in life. He will truly be missed.
Carol Richardson
October 9, 2009
BaBa, I know how much you are hurting now. Larry was the best. He gave you so many blessings, so much happiness, so much love. We will all remember him always. I will be here when you need me, as you were there when I needed you. God Bless My Friend!
Your Life Long Friend, Carol
Judy Miller
October 9, 2009
Larry was a great person to know and to work with - He will be sorely missed by all.
Judy Miller (Oregon Coast)
Andi Seissen
October 9, 2009
Larry was the most gentle man I have ever had the distinct pleasure of knowing. I love and miss him dearly. Thank you God for putting Larry on this earth for all to knowl
Mark Smith
October 9, 2009
I remember Larry with always a smile on his face. May God bless him and his family.
Juan Bailey
October 9, 2009
Marilyn, I never had the opportunity to meet you but I worked with Larry for many years. What a wonderful man. He will be missed by many. To the entire Bruns family and especially Bill & Stella I want you to know that my prayers are with you and may the Lord bless you in these times of sorrow.
robin borgen
October 9, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am sorry you have to go through this. Lots of Love
Jolene Cannon
October 9, 2009
So sorry for your lost. Larry was and always will be remembered as a great man. He was a very caring and thoughtful person. He was one of my supervisors and he always treated everyone fairly. He had a great sense of humor. He was the first supervisor who gave me a chance to be a QA Lead for a weekend and I will never forget that. He will be sorely missed.
Gail Case
October 9, 2009
Larry was one of the few sincerely good people living here on earth. I cannot remember a day when he did not greet me with a smile, a kind word and a twinkle in his eye. He will live on in my memory as one of the kindest and most gentlest of souls. I enjoyed working with him and he deeply touched my life. I will miss him greatly. I cannot even begin to imagine how much he will be missed by his family and loved ones. My condolences on the loss of a wonderful man, husband, father, brother, and friend.
John Annis
October 9, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jeff Ries
October 9, 2009
Larry was a friend, a co-worker, and so much more! He was an inspiration to many and truly was always thinking of others. "I love my job" was his motto, but he loved much more than that! He will be missed but never forgotten, he will always have a place in my heart and my memories.
Craig Smith
October 9, 2009
Larry, you are and always will be missed by everyone whom you have touched at the Boeing Co. Your professionalism has inspired too many to list. I know you will greet everone who knows you, at those purple pearly gates. Take care my friend.
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