Norman A. Brunner

BARRE - Norman "Tony" Anthony Brunner, 64, went home to his Lord and Savior in the early morning hours of Sunday 11/24/24. Tony passed comfortably at home with family by his side after battling a long battle with cancer.
Tony was born to Norman and Nathalie Brunner in Beirut, Lebanon. He was blessed to have had a culturally diverse childhood living in places like Morocco, Bagdad, and Thailand. He moved to the US with his parents and settled in Wheaton, Maryland where he attended Catholic school. Tony and his parents relocated to VT for Tony to attend college at Saint Michael's, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. During his time at Saint Michael's, he was a passionate rugby player until sustaining a severe knee injury. While playing sports ended that day for him, he shared his lifelong passion for sport with his children, grandchildren, and so many others.
He loved working with children and coached a variety of sports for many years. He was proud of his children and grandchildren and enjoyed watching them play sports while celebrating all of their accomplishments. He also was Cub Master for the local Cub Scout Pack. Tony was so proud when sons Bryan and Brandon obtained Life Scouts and when son Shaun obtained Eagle Scout.
In February of 1985, he met the love of his life Sheila and they were married in October of that year. The depth of their love brought four beautiful children into the world. Their first child, Bryan, came into the world on Mother's Day in 1986. Followed by Shelby in 1988, Shaun in 1989, and their welcomed surprise Brandon in 2001. As the children were growing up the Brunner household was open to all. Through this Tony and his wife gained Tyler and Analise Austin as their children by choice.
Tony was a jack of all trades working as a construction worker, architectural designer, coastal designer, cable tech, paraeducator for Barre City school system, and Washington County Mental Health Services. During his time at WCMHS Tony worked as an Intervention Counselor until his illness forced him to retire after a dedicated 17 years in 2022. In addition, he was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus as a fourth degree Knight.
Tony's love extended to so many. He was always there to lend a hand or an ear. He was also the first one to "talk someone's ear off," as he would say, sharing his knowledge, experience, and advice. All who knew him have been blessed by his many stories and words of wisdom that we will forever carry with us. Out of all the accomplishments in his life nothing made him prouder or happier than being a Papa to all of his grandchildren. They were a true light in his life. Tony would often remind his children and grandchildren "you are the best thing I did in my life."
Tony is survived by his loving wife of 39 years Sheila, son Bryan and partner Theresa, daughter Shelby and son in law Joseph, son Shaun and daughter in law Natalie, son Brandon, and bonus children Tyler and Analise Austin. His grandchildren, Bryan, Addie, Kenzie, Gwendolyn, Hunter, Jordin, Logan, Trent and Nolan. He also leaves behind his beloved pretty princess doggies, Layla and Lilly.
Tony is predeceased by his parents Norman and Nathalie Brunner as well as many aunts, an uncle, and cousins, and his beloved dog Buddy.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, from 6pm-8pm at Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate the life of Tony will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 1pm at St. Monica Church in Barre. A burial will be held at a later date.
Because of his love of children, Tony wanted donations in his memory made to Saint Jude's Children's Hospital.
Arrangements are in the care of Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St. in Barre.
Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com