Dennis DeBruin

Dennis DeBruin - "Bruno" - Age 75, passed away peacefully holding his wife’s hand on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at ThedaCare following a brief illness. He was born April 13, 1948, to the late Martin “Ben” and Bernetta (Schydzik) DeBruin. Bruno graduated with the Class of 1966 from Kaukauna High School. He served in the United States Air Force from 1967-71 and was stationed in South Korea and Japan as a communications specialist. He was later employed at Badger Northland and then Allis Chalmers. He retired in 2010 from the Neenah Post Office after 20 years of employment as a postal carrier. He truly loved this job and the many friendships he made among the customers on his route. Bruno enjoyed bowling, playing baseball, golfing, deer hunting and fishing and being a member of the Kaukauna Athletic Club. He was an avid fan of the Packers, Brewers, Badgers, and NASCAR. He also cherished the seven years of winter months spent in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., and the last three years at The Villages in Florida. Bruno is survived by his loving wife of 44 years and best friend: Debbie (Leatherbury); and brother: Robert (Rita) DeBruin, Kaukauna. He is also survived by his sister-in-law: Laura (Dick) Friedle, Florida; and brother-in-law, Tim (Sherry) Leatherbury, Appleton. He is survived by his nieces, Beth (Mark) Specht and Denise (Jay) Hatcher. Nephews surviving him are Tim DeBruin, Jon (Rachel) Leatherbury, and Christopher Leatherbury. He is also survived by numerous great nieces and great nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law: John and Margaret (Derus) Leatherbury; and a special niece: Brooke Leatherbury. Following Bruno’s wishes there will be no funeral services. He prefers that everyone remember him in their own way. To sign the guest book, please visit oconnellfh.com. Written condolences may be sent to Debbie. Bruno was always telling jokes to anyone who was willing to listen. He always wanted to make people laugh or smile. In some small way he made the world a happier place. He will be greatly missed, yet fondly remembered. A special thanks to the doctors and nursing staff on the 8th floor at ThedaCare Hospital for their kindness and support and for allowing Bruno to live life on his terms. An extra special thank you to Dr. Ring for not only being his doctor, but for also becoming his friend. I will always love you and miss you, Honey. You are only a thought away.

O’CONNELL FUNERAL HOME, 1776 E. Main Street, Little Chute, 920-788-6237