Benny A. Bruhling

Benny Albert Bruhling, 81, of Chippewa Falls, WI passed away in his home on Wednesday, August 11, 2010 with his family at his side. A native of Chippewa Falls, Benny was born the only child of Albert and Hazel “Goldie� (Bloyd) Bruhling on April 13, 1929. He attended school in the Chippewa Falls School District and eventually went to work for the Soo Line Railroad. On June 2, 1951, Benny married the love of his life, Dorothy Marie Martell, and the couple raised four beautiful children. Benny loved his country and was proud of the six years that he served as the Guidon Bearer for the 32nd Red Arrow Division of the Wisconsin National Guard. He was fascinated by the railroad and enjoyed working for the Soo Line Railroad. Benny was known as a hard-working, reliable railroad man. He retired after 40 years of service. Upon retirement, Benny started to really enjoy his hobbies. His garden was his pride and joy. He planted all types of gorgeous flowers and vines. He also loved watching the hummingbirds and orioles enjoy his garden. He was always looking for new varieties of plants that would increase the beauty of his garden. It was nothing unusual to see him with a camera in hand, taking pictures of anything that caught his eye, with an emphasis on capturing many of his families' special moments. His family considered him a brilliant photographer and will enjoy his pictures for many generations. Benny was also a collector of unique and rare treasures. He took delight in showing his heirlooms and sharing the stories behind them. He is survived by: his wife, Dorothy, and his four children: Belinda A. (Gordon) Dressel of Eau Claire; Benny J. (Suzann) Bruhling of Chippewa Falls; John H. (Judy) Bruhling of St. Joseph, Mo.; and Jeanette M. Ottinger of Eau Claire; 15 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Benny was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Goldie Bruhling, his Father-In-Law, George A. Martell Sr. and his Mother-In-Law, Evelyn Martell. Benny will be deeply missed by his family, friends and community. May God be with him and us. Funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, August 14, 2010 at Holy Ghost Church, Chippewa Falls. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Chippewa Falls. Military rites will be conducted by the Chippewa Falls Patriotic Council. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, August 13, and until 9 a.m. Saturday at the Horan Funeral Home, Chippewa Falls. There will be a Christian Vigil Service at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Family and friends may express online condolences at www.horanfuneralhome.com