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Mary Bruns Obituary
Mary Dean BRUNS (Purvis) Passed away May 16th, 2008 at the age of 86 surrounded by the love of her family and with the knowledge and joy of a life well spent. A Memorial and Celebration of her life will take place on June 7th in the Chapel at the Washington Soldier's Home from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The address is 1301 Kapowsin Hwy Orting Washington 98360. She was born on April 12th 1922 in Norfolk Virginia and eventually made her way west to Boise, Idaho where she married Walter J Bruns and raised 4 children; Robert D Bruns, Anita L Mero, Edward L Bruns and Diane M Traeger. She worked in administrative positions for most of her working life and retired from the Federal Housing Administration in 1984, but she was the most proud of her military service. She joined the Navy Waves in 1942 and was eventually stationed at Sandpoint Naval Air Station, Seattle, Washington where she served as an aviation machinist's mate until she was honorably discharged in November of 1945. She is survived by 1 brother and his family, 4 children and their spouses, 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She will be remembered for her warmth and sense of humor and deeply missed by all who knew her.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Bruns
Ellen Freeman
June 15, 2008
Service Girls Post 204 of the American Legion will miss Mary. She was a loyal and admired Veteran and member of our Post.
We will have a Post Everlasting ceremony for her in July.
Ellen Freeman
Pat Campbell
June 7, 2008
There is certainly a big hole in the world now that Mary Dean is no longer here. Some of my best memories are of her playing her organ at full volume in the family room at my house when she was living down the street. I also loved taking her and Mom to lunch and sitting back and listening to the two feminists solve the worlds ills. She will be missed greatly.
Marion Stevenson
June 7, 2008
Your mom was a great sister-in-law. She and I had some great chats during our lives. The last time I saw her was when she was in Kent. She's at peace now. My sympathies are with you all.
Love, Aunt Marion
Marysusan Gibson
June 7, 2008
Marydean was a woman on whose shoulders we stand. The dedication, courage and strength that she showed opened the doors that other women have gone through to serve our country. It was always enjoyable visiting with Marydean and listening to her memories of the south. I was honored to have known her. Thank you, Bob and Julia for sharing your precious Mother with me.
Pat and John Kamperschroer
June 7, 2008
While I never got to personally know Mary Dean very well, she was one of my personal heroes. Your mom always has stood up for her beliefs - even when some around her were not on the same page. Not many of us have the fortitude to be that strong. I loved the bumperstickers on her car. She is a one of a kind and it is likely she does not know how many people she inspired. And I remember from at least one party that she really knew how to have fun. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you.
Helen & Herb Glassen and family
June 5, 2008
Dear Cousins,
So sorry we can't be with you at this time. Aunt Mary Dean was a special person. She gave us lots of love and kindness when we all lived in Boise. It's a shame that all my kids didn't get to know her as Jenn did. She will be missed.
Rich & Linda Ewing
June 5, 2008
To the family of Mary Dean,
We will miss her sweet smile, laughter and cleaver wit. She was a very dear friend.
Love,
Rich and Linda
DOUG HOLLISTON
June 3, 2008
Mary Dean was the Maiden of Honor at our wedding in 1944 in Portland, Oregon. Wife Carol and she were best of friends during their time spent while they were stationed in Seattle, Wa. We have stayed in touch all of these many years. We loved her. Doug Holliston
Shelley Jellison
June 3, 2008
Bob, Julia, Joshua and Family,
Mary Dean was a very special lady and certainly loved her Joshua. He will have fond memories of his Grandma Dean always. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss.
Love,
David, Shelley & Sean Jellison
Bob, Julia & Joshua Bruns
June 3, 2008
We weren't ready to let you go, but we're comforted knowing you're up there dancing to the oldies. We love you Mom and we miss you very much! Josh sends you lots of hugs and kisses!
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How to support Mary's loved ones
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