Robert Bruhn

Robert Harold Bruhn passed away peacefully at his home in North Richland Hills, Texas
on August 11, 2024. His wife of 70 years, Joan Bruhn (nee Drury) was by his side. Bob
was a longtime resident of Festus, Missouri until his job with PPG Industries transferred
him to Wichita Falls, Texas and then to Huntsville, Alabama where he retired from PPG
in 1997 with 44 years of service. Bob and Joan returned to Texas after he retired.
Bob was born February 12,1935, to David E. and Pearl Bruhn in St. Louis, Missouri.
Shortly thereafter, the family moved to a small 20-acre farm in Pevely, Missouri where
several members of the Bruhn family resided. Eventually, the street on which they lived
was named Bruhn Lane. Bob graduated from Herculaneum High School in 1953 where
he excelled in both the classroom and on the sports fields. As a high school athlete,
Bob earned several all-state and all-conference honors in track and basketball.
Although baseball was not offered at Herky High School, he played on local baseball
teams and was considered one of the best local baseball players of his time.
Bob and Joan married on February 13, 1954, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in
Crystal City, Missouri. Bob worked for Coca-Cola, Chrysler dealership in Crystal City, his
dad’s (David Bruhn) Shell Service Station and PPG Industries. He was in the army
reserve for eight years.
Bob was an avid fan of all sports; however, baseball was his first love. Some of his
most cherished memories were coaching baseball for the kids and playing baseball for
the local semi-pro baseball team, the Twin City Reds. He was the youngest team
member, but a leader, nonetheless. He played shortstop with a rocket arm, leadoff
hitter with power and a “baseball brain” that was working all the time. The relationships
created with this team lasted throughout his lifetime. He was the last surviving member
of the team and remained in touch with many of his teammates and their families until
their passing. In later years, Bob became an avid golfer and naturally excelled at the
game. He played all over the country at some prestigious golf courses and was able to
meet some prestigious players such as Fred Couples with whom he and Joan had
dinner.
His greatest joy were his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When his
boys started playing competitive baseball, he hung up his spikes and started coaching.
He served twice as President of the Twin City Little League Baseball Organization. He
spent many hours umpiring, working on the fields and helping young men learn how to
play the game the right way. As his grandchildren became active in sports and other
activities, Bob attended every event he could and was extremely proud of their
accomplishments.

Bob is survived by his wife, Joan and his six children; Michael Bruhn (Lynn), Cathleen
Carroll, Robin Cook (Mike), Steven Bruhn (Penny), Donald Bruhn (Christy) and Amy
LeClair; 14 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, cousins,
three sisters-in-law and their spouses.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents, David E. and Pearl V. Bruhn; brothers David O.
Bruhn and wife Ginny, Arthur Ray Bruhn and wife Melva; Father and Mother-in-laws,
Raymond J. Drury and Lola B. Drury; brother-in-law, Joseph R. Drury; sons-in-law,
Kenneth P. Carroll and Paul J. LeClair, and beloved grandson, Ryan M. Cook.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024, at Forest Ridge Funeral
Home, North Richland Hills, Texas. Services will begin at 3:00 pm following a private
family viewing. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital or to
the charity of your choice.