Robert J. Bruning
October 1, 1942 - February 14, 2026
Robert "Bob" Bruning, age 83, of Omaha, passed away on February 14th, 2026.
Bob lived a life rooted in family and deep personal passions that brought him joy and connection with others. He will be remembered for his warm spirit, generous heart, and the way he embraced life with enthusiasm, humor, and a joyful zest that was contagious to all who knew him.
Bob was born on a farm near 160th and Blondo and later moved with his family to Gretna, NE, in 1954. He graduated from Gretna High School in 1960, and soon after began working for REA Express while also starting what would become a lifelong dedication to farming. During this time, Bob enlisted in the National Guard, proudly serving for six years.
Bob grew his farming operation for many years and built a life grounded in hard work and commitment. He was introduced to the love of his life, Sharon, by his sister, Sharon's roommate at the time, and the two went on to share 58 wonderful years of marriage.
Bob later founded and operated a seeding company, a business he ran for decades. Through this work, he seeded countless parks, roadways, and interstates across the region before eventually selling the company. His career and dedication contributed greatly to his well-known persona throughout the Omaha community.
Alongside his work in agriculture and seeding, Bob entered the world of real estate, where he developed close personal relationships and became especially involved in brokering the sale of nearby farms for development. Real estate remained a passion for Bob for many years, one he truly enjoyed until the end of his life.
Bob was also an avid collector of classic cars and an enthusiastic Elvis fan who appreciated the music and memories that came with it. He loved traveling, celebrating holidays, and spending time with those closest to him. He also enjoyed going to the casino on a regular basis.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon; his four sisters; his two daughters, Michelle Lutz (Doug Lutz) of Overland Park, KS, and Gail Ward (Chris Ward) of Omaha; and his four grandchildren, Elizabeth Ward, Jackson Lutz, Collin Lutz, and Willa Lutz; as well as one great-grandchild.
VISITATION will be held on Friday, February 20th, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Heafey Hoffmann Dworak Cutler Funeral Home, followed by VIGIL SERVICE at 7 p.m.
MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will be celebrated on Saturday, February 21st, at 10 a.m., at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 1920 N. 102nd St. in Omaha.
ENTOMBMENT: Calvary Mausoleum.
Following the burial, a luncheon will be held at Heafey Hoffmann Dworak Cutler Funeral Home, West Center Chapel, beginning at 12 p.m., where family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Bob.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in support of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church or Catholic Charities.
Robert "Bob" Bruning will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
To view live broadcasts of the Vigil Service and Mass, please visit
www.heafeyheafey.com and click the "Live Cast" button at the top of the home page.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler
West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road
402-391-3900 | www.heafeyheafey.com

Published by Omaha World-Herald from Feb. 19 to Feb. 21, 2026.