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Donald Joseph Bruening passed away peacefully surrounded by his devoted family on April 23. Don was born on March 29, 1930, to Charles and Marie (Howe) Bruening in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a graduate from St. Ignatius High School, John Carroll University, and received an engineering degree from Cleveland State University (formerly Fenn College). He proudly served in the US Air Force from 1950 to 1953 and was a test pilot during the Korean War.

Don and his beloved wife Helen Jane (Jones) recently celebrated their 65th anniversary in January.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by his children Laura (Michael) Reilly, Susan Bruening (Don Congdon), Michael (Karen) Bruening, and Gerald (Kandee) Bruening. Additionally, he is survived by his loving grandchildren Jay Matush, Kevin Reilly, Matthew Bruening, and Laura Rose Bruening; along with his sister Lois Cawley and brother William Bruening.

He was a 50-year resident of Madison, and a member of Saint Margaret’s Roman Catholic Church, where he previously served on the church council during its 1970’s renovation.

Don held several senior management positions at mechanical engineering firms specializing in the design and implementation of industrial conveyor belts, and was a lifelong member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He also served on the board of Middlesex Hospital.

He was an active coach and organizer in the Madison youth programs through the ’70s and ’80s for football, basketball and little league baseball. He was the historian for the American Legion and marched annually at the Madison Memorial Day and 4th of July parades. He was a member of the Madison Newcomers and Encore clubs. Don was a passionate supporter of Daniel Hand High football, never missing a home or away game in more than 30 years. Don was a loving husband and father and enjoyed 1940’s Big Band music, World War II movies, and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The family would like to thank the caregivers from the Hearth of Tuxis Pond, Branford Hills Rehabilitation, and Seasons Hospice of Connecticut.

Calling hours were held on April 28 at Swan Funeral Home in Madison. The funeral service took place at Saint Margaret’s in Madison on April 2. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Legion Post 79, PO box 504, 43 Bradley Rd., Madison, CT 06443.