Genesee, New York- Richard Brunner, died Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville, NY. He was born February 9, 1946 in Olean, NY, the son of Edward and Helen (Duffy) Brunner of Allegany, NY.
On May 15, 1982 in Obi, NY he married Bonita (Bixby) Brunner of Portville, NY. They celebrated their 42nd anniversary earlier this year.
Richard, known as Dick or JB, was previously employed at various places in Allegany, NY. He worked for Portville Forest Products, Portville, NY driving tractor-trailer. In 1989 he purchased his own tractor-trailer, mainly traveling the eastern seaboard to Florida and back to Canada on a weekly basis. In 2005 he retired due to illness.
Today we lost a legend, a smart, tough as iron and oak, a kind man. He traveled the roads in years gone past. A life he chose and hoped it would last. Driving all night from state to state. Trying to get home and arriving so late. He parked his truck. Now his engine has stopped. And those who love him their hearts have dropped. He traveled the country with a smile of great pride. Now he drives the streets of Heaven on the trucker’s last ride. May God Ride with You...10-4.
He is survived by his wife, Bonnie, of Portville and his son, John Brunner (Ricci Ward) , of West Clarksville, NY. He is also survived by a brother, Edward (Judy) Brunner of Brooksville, Florida and two step-grandsons, Nicholas (Kami) Speta and Colin Keech of West Clarksville. He is also survived by cousins and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Helen Brunner, a sister, Sister Roberta Brunner, and two brothers, Paul and Patrick Brunner.
No services are planned at this time. A celebration of life will be held in 2025.
Arrangements are under the
direction of Mark Rinker Funeral Home, Cuba, NY.
