Richard A. Bruns

Richard A. Bruns

Richard A. Bruns, age 81, of Lodgepole, NE, passed away peacefully in Sidney on Saturday, March 2, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family while enjoying a rodeo event. Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at the Evangelical Free Church in Sidney, NE with Pastor Kyle Larson officiating. Cremation has been held and services will conclude at the church. Services will be livestreamed on the Gehrig-Stitt Chapel Facebook page and recorded for later viewing on our website.

Friends may stop at the Gehrig-Stitt Chapel on Friday from 1-6:00 P.M. to leave condolences for the family.

You may view Richard's Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and stories at http://www.gehrigstittchapel.com. Gehrig-Stitt Chapel & Cremation Service, LLC is in charge of Richard's care and funeral arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lodgepole Fire Department, PO Box 181 Lodgepole NE 69149.

A lifelong resident of the Lodgepole area, he was born on July 26, 1942, to the late Arthur and Nellie Bruns on their cherished family farm. Richard was the beloved brother of Frances Grasz, Henry Bruns, and Elvie Bruns.

Richard's life was forever changed when he met Donna Nish on a train ride to Omaha. They were united in marriage on March 30, 1970, and began their journey together by making their home in Grandma Bruns' house in Lodgepole. The couple was blessed with two sons: Jeff and Scott.

A true farmer at heart, Richard found joy in the simple pleasures of life - spending time with his family, tending to the farm, and caring for his cattle. He cherished moments shared with his family and grandchildren, taking them horseback riding and fishing at "Papa's Pond." Those fortunate enough to ride alongside him would often hear him sing the auctioneer's song, a testament to his lively spirit and love for his work.

Richard began his career farming south of Lodgepole at a very early age. He was driving tractors, milking cows, helping take care of the farm animals all before he was even able to see over the steering wheel.  Richard then joined the railroad gang in his early twenties. After dedicating 37 years of service, Richard retired from the Union Pacific Railroad. Retirement afforded him the opportunity to return to the farm, where he spent his days from sunup to sundown.

Richard is survived by his wife, Donna; his sons Jeff Bruns and wife Krista from Sidney, NE, Scott Bruns and wife Shelley from Springer, NM; seven grandchildren, Kaela Cole, Katelin Riley and husband Lane, Kyler Cole, Samantha Bruns, Tucker Bruns and wife Samantha, Cheyenne Burrell and husband Timothy, and Justin Bruns and wife Kodie; and his four cherished great-grandchildren; Clayton, Miles, Briggs, and Brooklyn Riley; soon to be two more great grandchildren Cheyenne and Tim are expecting Beau Branson Burrell any day and Tucker and Samantha are expecting Heath Aaron Bruns in June. His one brother Henry Bruns; and his in-laws Bill and Carol Nish, Allen and Margo Wilder, and Linda Bruns. He also leaves behind six nieces and five nephews.

He was preceded in death by his siblings Elvie Bruns and Frances Grasz.

Richard will be fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his love for farming, and the joy he brought to all who knew him. He will forever hold a special place in our hearts.