David Hall Bruning

David Hall Bruning, PhD passed away suddenly on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at the age of 72.  He was born in Elgin, IL to John Val and Duffie (nee: Hall) Bruning on May 7,1952.   Dave was an astronomy and physics professor, teaching at the college level for many years.  He was a member of Phi Kappa Phi and the International Astronomical Union, and past member of American Astronomical Society.

Throughout his life, Dave was an ardent supporter of science education, whether in a college classroom, as an editor at Astronomy Magazine, or delighting weekend campers with starfinders  and satellite sightings (in-the-sky.org/satpasses.php#g). He became passionate about teaching Native American astronomy as well, developing a novel class that was popular as a general education science elective. He also had been a successful researcher, participating in groundbreaking studies into solar and stellar astronomy.

In retirement, Dave pursued a new passion incorporating his Scottish heritage, managing the Waukesha Highland Games pipe band competition through Wisconsin Scottish for several years, and finding joy as a drum major in Celtic Nations Pipe Band. The band became his second family.

In the final act of Dave's life, he became a grandparent! delighting in seeing the oldest grow and welcoming the newest a few short months ago. His greatest regret would be not being part of their lives in coming years.

Although he was not an active member of First Congregational Church, Dave participated in special activities over the years, either setting up or joining in Advent workshops, “Camping under the stars” and the annual Pancake Suppers.

He is sadly missed by his loving wife Kathy Bruning, their son John (Casey) Bruning and grandchildren, Hazel and Silas Bruning.   He was further survived by his brother John Val (Marge Anderson) Bruning, brothers-in-law Dick (PJ) Wenham and Bob Wenham, nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents John Val and Duffie Bruning and a brother- and sister-in-law, John and Linda Wenham.

A Celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 2, 2024, Southminster Presbyterian Church,200 Richard Street Waukesha, WI 53189 at 1:00PM. The service will in in the outside Amphitheater, seating is provided, but guests may want to bring camp chairs or seat cushions, and perhaps an umbrella, allowing for weather conditions. Refreshments and fellowship will follow the service.  .

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Dave’s name to Celtic Nations Pipe Band: c/o Kent Brodie (Treasurer), 4845 Sycamore St., Greendale, 53129;First Congregational UCC: 100 E. Broadway, Waukesha, 53186; and HAWS (Humane Animal Welfare Society): 701 Northview Road, Waukesha, WI 53188

Family would like to thank the staff at Ascension Urgent Care, Waukesha; Elmbrook Hospital ED & cath lab staff, and Froedtert CV-ICU for their excellent and compassionate care and support for us all.