Kay Bruno

Mary Katherine “Kay” Bruno, 91, passed away peacefully at home on March 15, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born January 8, 1935, she shared a birthday with her beloved husband and soulmate of 72 years, Patrick “Pat” Bruno. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and devotion- Kay put it best when she said “We were put together for the purpose of loving, harassing, protecting each other, and most importantly creating the five children who became our legacy. “

Kay is survived by her husband, Pat; her children, Kathi Krakowka, Steven Bruno, Karen Miglorie, and Jennifer Schofield; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her mother, Mary Fortier; her son, Patrick “Paddy” Bruno; and her grandson, Michael Bruno.

Kay had a rare and beautiful gift for making all of her children feel like they were “the favorite,” a testament to the way she loved so deeply and individually. That same warmth extended to everyone who knew her.

She was a hardworking and dedicated partner in the family business, The Beer King, where she was truly the heart behind it all. Despite her tireless work ethic, she cherished her time to relax — especially her six weeks each year in Florida, where she could be found by the pool, enjoying the sunshine and maintaining her signature sun-kissed glow. It only made sense they would retire to sunny Florida, after selling Beer King in 1987

Kay loved playing Bid 45, cooking for those she loved, and bringing people together. She was truly the “hostess with the mostess,” always creating a space where everyone felt like family.

Kay lived fully, laughed often, and loved deeply — truly embodying her motto: Live, Laugh, Love. Even in her final days, Kay’s quick wit, clever humor, signature grace, sass, and loving spirit never wavered.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, June 13, at 10:30 am
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, located on
45 North Road
Castleton, VT
05735
Followed by a Celebration of Life at the Castleton Legion on Saturday, June 13, at 12:30 p.m.