Albert E. "Bud" Brunner

Albert E. "Bud" Brunner Athens Albert E. "Bud" Brunner, age 87, quietly passed away, Monday, March 21, 2011, surrounded by his family at the Good Samaritan Hospice Residence. Bud was born on March 25, 1923, in Athens, the son of Donald E. and Mildred (Espenhain) Brunner. Bud was a lifelong resident of Athens. He, along with his father and brother, operated the Athens Milling Company from 1946 to 1964. He then worked for the Athens area schools as a bus driver and custodian. Bud then worked for the Kellogg Company, retiring after 19 years of service. Bud enjoyed working in his yard, cutting wood and camping which included an annual outing and walk of the Mackinac Bridge that began in 1962 and very few walks were missed. After retirement he took great pleasure traveling, including trips to Australia, Russia and Europe. He shared these experiences with his wife, the former Keitha A. Ward who he married on July 4, 1948, who survives. He is survived by children, Sandra Brunner of Battle Creek, Mike Brunner of Athens and John (Deborah) Brunner of Battle Creek; six grandchildren, J.R. (Kacie) Brunner, Tina (Jason) Holecheck, Dan (Betsy) Brunner, Jennifer (Shaun) Lake, Matthew Brunner and Alicia Brunner; and seven great-grandchildren. Bud shared his life with his family offering advice and his experiences. He attended the Athens United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held today from 2 to 4:00 p.m. and 6 to 8:00 p.m. at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 24, 2011, at the Athens United Methodist Church with The Rev. Sandra Gastian officiating. Interment will be at Burr Oak Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Athens United Methodist Church.