John Oreste Bruno, 62, of Oshkosh, Wis., passed away unexpectedly Friday, May 6, 2011, in Oshkosh.
He was born on May 20, 1948, in Wakefield, Mich., the son of Oreste J. and Helen E. (Jarvela) Bruno. John graduated from Wakefield High School in 1966. He continued his education and graduated from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Mich., with a teaching degree in 1972.
John taught music at Wakefield High School for one year and at L'Anse (Mich.) High School for 16 years.
He changed careers and became a funeral director and practiced in Valparaiso, Ind., Danville, Ill. and Oshkosh.
John loved people and enjoyed visiting with everyone. He was the family archive. John never failed to remember families' and friends' birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and other special occasions.
He and his mother enjoyed multiple trips to Finland where they met several relatives and remained in close contact with them. John loved music and participating in church activities. He enjoyed the success of the Green Bay Packers and endured the frustrations of University of Michigan football.
John is survived by his mother, Helen; a brother, Dr. Peter (Cindy), Alma, Mich.; two nephews, Peter Jr. (Laura), Naperville, Ill., and Tony, San Francisco; and other loving relatives.
He was preceded in death by his father, Oreste John, on May 23, 2005.
The family will greet relatives and friends on Saturday, May 14, from 9 to 11 a.m., at All Saints Lutheran Church in Wakefield, where funeral services will follow at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Bill Jacobson officiating.
Burial will take place in Lakeside Cemetery.
Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy may contribute to All Saints Lutheran Church, 1202 Putnam Blvd., Wakefield MI 49968.
Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories may be shared at lakesidememorialchapel.com.