Patrick Joseph Brunett

Patrick Joseph Brunett of Novi, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, at the age of 88. In the final months of his life, he devoted himself to caring for his beloved wife of 66 years, Barbara, who preceded him in death on January 22, 2026.

Pat was born on March 27, 1937 in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Walter Christian Brunett and Helen Catherine O'Connor.

Pat grew up in Detroit alongside his seven siblings: Mary Ellen Zynda, Margaret Groveant, Jane Burns, Denise Ross, James Brunett, Terry Sochocki and Brian Brunett. He attended St. Joseph High School and later earned a Bachelor of Science in History from the University of Detroit, where he was also a member of the fencing team. During his time at the University of Detroit, he met the love of his life, Barbara, whom he married on June 19, 1959. Together they built a family of eight, and through school, church and community they developed and maintained lifelong friendships.

Pat dedicated his professional life to serving the Detroit region. He began his career as a licensed engineer at Michigan Central Railroad and later worked in urban planning at Vilican-Leman. He went on to serve as a liaison between state and local governments at Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG), supporting environmental stewardship and regional collaboration.

Deeply committed to his community, over the years Pat was involved with Focus Hope, Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision (SDEV), and Rouge River clean-up efforts. He served as President of the Novi Library Board, President of the Friends of the Novi Library and volunteered his time at Holy Family Parish. Pat cared deeply about others and was known for generously giving his time and resources to help those in need.

A lifelong learner, Pat continually sought to expand his knowledge through reading, traveling, visiting museums, and attending the theater. In 2023, he helped establish a virtual family book club connecting his children and grandchildren from Vienna to Nevada. Pat shared thoughtful insights and initiated lively discussions on 26 modern and classic books.

Pat's quiet generosity and steady presence were most evident in his devotion to family. He was a loving role model who cherished time with his six children, sixteen grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren. He delighted in holding the babies, reading to the little ones, and spending meaningful one-on-one time with family.

Pat will also be remembered for his quick wit, thoughtful storytelling, and engaging conversations. He had a warm manner that made others feel comfortable and welcome. He took a genuine interest in hearing the perspectives of his family, friends, and younger generations and, in return, shared his own reflections on a wide variety of topics shaped by his life experiences.

Pat is survived by his loving children: Maureen (Glen) Malone; Patrick (Diana) Brunett; Kathleen (Gary) Zaguroli; Margaret (Brian) Bellhorn; Karen (Duane) Dudas; and Kimberly (Ross) Martin; his 16 grandchildren; his 15 great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Jane Burns and Terry Sochocki.

His kindness, wisdom, and love for family will be deeply missed.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, March 22, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at O'Brien-Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River Ave., Novi, MI 48375.

A funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday, March 23 at 10:00 am, with a eulogy at 9:55 at Holy Family Parish, 24505 Meadowbrook Rd., Novi, MI 48375. A luncheon will follow the Mass.

Donations may be made in Patrick's honor to Mercy Education Project in Detroit

The family asks that you keep Patrick and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.