Thomas Emery Bruno

October 12, 1937 — January 10, 2024

The family of Thomas Emery Bruno is devastated by the loss of our beloved Tom on January 10, 2024.
Tom was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, father-in-law, uncle, godfather, stepfather, and the best Papa ever. Tom was the epitome of a Patriarch for his family and his presence is missed beyond measure.

Thomas Emery Bruno was born on October 12, 1937 in Cleveland, Ohio. As a child, Tom played the accordion and found his passion in the game of baseball. After the loss of his parents at an early age, life demanded Tom go from boy to man quickly and he dedicated himself to being a man of whom he could be proud. Tom did just that, and we are all so proud of the man he was.

Born into an Italian family, Tom always showed respect to his heritage and enjoyed honoring old traditions and making new ones with his loved ones. Tom took much pride in supporting his family and demonstrated selflessness for the better of others his whole life. Tom was thoughtful and loyal to all whom he loved. He was bright, authentic, honest, and an amazing human being. His warmth could be felt in person or even just over the phone. Known to many adoring friends as “The Bruno”, Tom’s charisma and charm attracted people to him like a magnet. With a great sense of humor and sharp wit, Tom’s smile lit up the room and his laugh was contagious. Everyone who met Tom considered him a friend, and all animals were drawn to him, especially his dog.

No matter which role it was in his life, Tom shined in every position he held, as the leader of his family, as a shining example of a father, grandfather, great grandfather, and stepfather, as a devoted husband of over 50 years, as a supportive brother and uncle, as a lifelong friend, as a successful businessman, as a fit athlete, as a loving husband and companion later in life after loss, and as a kind member of the community of Ventura for almost 60 years.

Tom knew how to work hard, and he really knew how to enjoy life. He was full of joy and love. As a gardening aficionado, Tom poured his heart into everything he planted and made his garden his sanctuary. After many successful years of his career in the beverage industry, Tom was the best to cheers with. Tom was well traveled and alway shared his wisdom and interesting stories of his experiences. As in life, Tom demonstrated his happiness, strength, and finesse on the tennis court and golf course. He enjoyed many happy years playing his favorite sports with his friends. Even when Tom endured chronic back issues, he smiled through the pain and always had a positive attitude.

There is no doubt that Tom Bruno lived life to the fullest. No amount of time with him would have been enough. He is so very missed. Tom Bruno is one in a million and life just will not be the same without him.

Tom Bruno joins those whom he had missed dearly, including his late wife, Rosemary Bruno, and his late son, Robert Bruno, as well as his parents, Frances Ceo Bruno and Sam Frank Bruno.

Tom is survived by his wife, Rita Bruno; daughter, Lori Bruno; son-in-law, Channing Long; daughter-in-law, Christine Bruno Troesh and her husband Doug Troesh; sisters, Esther and Angela; as well as his many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, stepfamily, and his numerous friends.

Tom’s final wishes will be honored at his Celebration of Life on April 21. For more information please email brunomemorial@yahoo.com.
Donations in Tom’s memory can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Cancer Research or the Alzheimer’s Assocation. Tom also supported the non-profits of The Bryan Bros Foundation and Recovery Shot Golf.

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Thomas Emery Bruno

October 12, 1937 — January 10, 2024

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