Adrienne Florence Bruhn

Adrienne Florence Gates Bruhn was born on February 1, 1935, in Salmon Arm, British Columbia to her parents Fred and Eva Gates. She peacefully passed away on July 14, 2024, at the age of 89 with her family by her side. She leaves a legacy of strength, love, and creativity.
Adrienne's early life was marked by hardship, growing up very poor and facing significant challenges. Despite this, a great light emerged from the darkness – Adrienne herself. Her beautiful light could not be suppressed. She became a beacon of hope and positivity, illuminating the lights of those around her with her unwavering love and kindness.
In 1952, Adrienne came to visit her Aunt Florence in Buckley, and she met her cousin's friend, Walter Bruhn. Walter and Adrienne were married in January 1953. Their wedding took place at the Presbyterian Church, followed by a joyful reception at the Danish Hall. The Bruhn family were early pioneers of Enumclaw, and Adrienne and Walter began their life together on the family dairy farm.
Adrienne and Walter had five children while running the family dairy. No one works harder than a farmer except the farmer's wife. Her years on the farm were filled with tending to and feeding all the animals, the calves, pigs, chickens, turkeys, cats, etc. They also had a grand vegetable garden and lots of flowers that needed care. She was able to do all this while lovingly caring for her children along with cooking three meals a day, not only feeding her family but many times feeding their friends, and she always had home-baked pies, cookies or cakes too.
Adrienne also found time to nurture her own creativity and talents. She was a published poet and a writer as well as a painter. Her artistic work reflects the depth of her spirit and the beauty she saw in the world around her.
After the death of Walter, Adrienne moved off the farm and met a new neighbor, Don Farris. The two became inseparable, spending five years together.
Adrienne is survived by her loving companion, Don, and her five children, John (Connie), Dave (Cheryl), Henry (Susan), Lori (Neil), and Robert (Jackie). She is also survived by her 11 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of love, creativity, and resilience will continue to inspire and uplift. Rest in Peace. Your light will never fade.
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