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Harlan Bruens Obituary
November 22, 1940 - April 21, 2025
BLOOMINGTON - Harlan "Harley" Bruens, 84, passed away on April 21, 2025, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington, IL.
Harlan was born on November 22, 1940, in Woodworth, IL, son of Walter and Louise (Scherf) Bruens. He married Merridee Clemens on September 27, 1969, in Normal, IL. She survives him.
Also surviving Harlan are his children: Dr. Kimberly Eickmeier (Kerry) of Champaign, IL and Dr. Kristina Gustafson (Dr. Danny) of Charleston, SC; grandchildren: Kassandra Eickmeier of Monticello, IL, Kolten Eickmeier of Champaign, IL, Parker Gustafson and Isabella Gustafson both of Charleston, SC; siblings: Eugene Bruens of Watseka, IL, Linda Brazel (Carl) of Milford, IL and Randy Bruens of Donovan, IL; sister-in-law and brother-in-law: Bob and Debi Wesselhoff of Pontiac, IL; brother-in-law: Ron Soper of Fairbury, IL; 10 nephews, seven nieces and numerous great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; son: Dr. Michael Bruens; one sister, and four brothers.
He graduated from Donovon High School and attended Illinois State University. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1963 to 1966. Harlan was a Carpenter/Contractor all his life. He was extremely proud of his children and their educational accomplishments. He was especially proud of his four grandchildren and was looking forward to being a great-grandfather in the near future.
Harlan was a sweet hardworking man that never failed to bring a smile to people's faces. He was goofy in the best way. His easy going personality is what most would remember; he never met a stranger. He was quick to help others, simply because he could. He enjoyed spending time outside, visiting with neighbors with his Yorkie companion Cleo or Willow on his lap.
After retirement, he enjoyed spending winters in Florida and traveling to many countries in Europe.
A family graveside service for Harlan will be held. Memorials may be made in Harlan's name to the Mclean County Museum of History, 200 N. Main Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, The Fisher House Foundation, 12300 Twinbrook Parkway Suite 410, Rockville, MD 20852 or donors' choice. The family would like to thank the staff at St. Joseph Hospital for the wonderful care he received in his final days.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Harlan Bruens
Patricia Lingenfelter
April 28, 2025
As a former neighbor, Harlan was always kind to our family. My four sons so enjoyed our neighborhood. May his beloved family find comfort in past joys and memories. In thoughts and prayers.
Susan Carlile
April 25, 2025
Merridee, I'm so very sorry to learn of the loss of your beloved Harley. Holding you in my thoughts and prayers. May loving memories provide comfort and strength at this difficult time.
Susan Carlile
Kris J
April 25, 2025
Remembering one of the best people I know. Harley or what I liked to called him affectionately Snarley, was a kind soul. His laugh and smile was contagious! He was always helping people and there was no favor too big that he wasn´t willing to help. You will be missed by so many. Thank you for the memories.
Carol Wagner
April 25, 2025
I´m so sorry to see this. Harlan was such a good man. So many good memories of how much he meant to my Mom Clara Wagner. God be with you all.
Brenda
April 24, 2025
Harley was the best. To the man who helped me remodel my kitchen and never asked for anything in return except a thermos of coffee!
Bussy Davis
April 24, 2025
He was one of the best and will be missed by all that new him.
God speed Har-Har.
Camille Taylor
April 24, 2025
Harlan was the handyman in a duplex where I used to live. Whenever he came to fix something, we always had a nice conversation and a good laugh!
He was funny guy and very good natured!
God rest his soul!
Karen A Pope
April 24, 2025
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Connie Wills
April 24, 2025
What a wonderful neighbor and friend!
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