William E. Brubeck

William “Bill” Erskine Brubeck, 91, of Middlebrook, VA passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 25, 2025.

He is survived by his loving wife of seventy years, Sara “Sally” Frances (Arehart) Brubeck; his sons, Doug (Polly) of Charlottesville and John (Kym) of Poulsbo, WA; and one granddaughter, Hannah Frances Brubeck of Seattle, WA.

Bill was born on September 15, 1934, in Newport, VA to the late Robert and Lucy Brubeck. He was the youngest member of his family.

Bill grew up in Newport and married his high school sweetheart, settling in Middlebrook. He proudly served in the Army Reserve while working for Staunton Typewriter Co. Inc. In 1964, he was appointed Postmaster for the U.S. Postal Service in Middlebrook and opened a hardware store in the adjoining building. Mr. Brubeck retired after thirty years of service and closed Brubeck Hardware shortly after, spending the rest of his life serving the community he loved.

Bill was an active member of the Middlebrook Volunteer Fire Department (MVFD) for over fifty years. He served as fire chief and treasurer for a number of years and was a member of the Middlebrook Ruritan Club for sixty-nine years. He made many lifelong friends and was respected for his thoughtfulness, generosity, and dedication.

Bill attended Bethel Presbyterian Church along with Sally from the 1950s up until his passing. He was a valued Trustee, Elder, and Deacon for many years and began his service to Bethel as an Usher.

Bill was especially happy spending time with his two sons throwing baseballs and footballs in the yard and he was very supportive of all athletics in the Riverheads district.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Bethel Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Staunton with a reception following at the church.