Ron A. Brunkel

Ronald Allen Brunkel, age 61 of Mishawaka, passed away unexpectedly in Twin Falls, Idaho on October 5, 2019.  Ron was born June 9, 1958 in Dowagiac, Michigan to the late Waldemar and Hedwig (Hartwig) Brunkel.  On June 12, 1992, he married Julia (Cooperrider) Brunkel.

Surviving is his wife of 27 years, Julie Brunkel of Mishawka, his step son Adam Shaw and Adam’s significant other Rebekah Wells of Mishawaka, and his lifelong friend whom he considered a brother, George Sawaya.  Also surviving are his longtime mentors Gene Riley and Leroy Elledge.

Visitation will be held at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola 2 hours prior to the noon funeral service on Saturday, October 19, 2019. Interment will follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola.  Friends and family are also invited to gather for an informal memorial service to share stories of Ron’s life at 2:00pm Sunday, October 20, 2019 at the South Bend Four Winds Casino.

Ron was self employed and worked for many years with several different businesses in the Michiana community. He loved to fish and spend time on the water, singing, roller skating, and spending his leisure time with his family and friends.  He will be remembered for his fair and gentle soul and the ability to solve problems efficiently and in a timely manner for those who relied on him regularly to do so.   Ron will also be remembered for his skills as a chef, and the holiday dinners he hosted for his many friends and family members will be missed immensely as time passes.

To leave a condolence for Ron’s family or light a virtual candle in his memory, please follow the links provided on the Tribute Wall tab above.