John Michael Brunner

Reached the end of the line peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, December 15, 2017 at the age of 87. Loving husband of Dolores for 66 beautiful years. Caring father of Neil (Cheryl), Dan (Kathie), Tony (Mel), Susan (Peter, like his fourth son) Opichka and Theresa. Proud grandpa of Heather (Dan), Nate (Andrea), Katie, Brian (Melanie), Scott (Katie) and Eric (Jordan). Great-grandpa of Peyton, Olivia, Brooks and Wesley. Dad Brunner to Debbie Opichka. Preceded in death by his sister Mary (the late Jack) and his sister-in-law Rosemary (the late Jim). Further survived by his sister-in-law Nancy (Ron), brother-in-law Bob (Sandy) and by other relatives and friends. John was a 1948 graduate of Boys Tech. He retired from The Milwaukee Road/Soo Line Railroad after 46 years of dedicated service. Not only did John play the accordion, he was the founding member and leader of Johnnys Nite Hawks Polka Band. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Robin for her kind caregiving support of John and his family, and to the staff of Select Specialty Hospital for their compassionate care. Visitation will be held at ST. CHARLES BORROMEO CATHOLIC CHURCH (3100 W. Parnell Ave., Milwaukee) on Thursday, December 28 from 9:00-10:45AM. Funeral Mass to follow at 11AM. Private burial at Mt. Olivet Cemetery will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to The Basilica of Holy Hill.