Rick Bruner

On Monday, November 30, 2020, Rick Joe Bruner, loving husband and father of three children, passed away at the age of 58 in Tulsa, OK.

Rick was born on October 18, 1962 in Tulsa, OK to John Edward and Judith Alice (Phillips) Bruner. Rick grew up in Tulsa and attended McLain High School. On November 7, 1980, he married the love of his life, Susan Ruth Bell. Together they raised a son, John, and two daughters, Crystal and Michelle. He worked many years as a carpenter before beginning his career in the Information Technology field. His fondest memories came from his time spent with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Prior to that, he devoted many years of service to the William K. Warren Foundation as the Manager of Computer Operations. During this time he was also a proud volunteer firefighter with the Kiefer Fire Department. He later moved on to CNI Technology where he served as the Manager of Client Operations. Rick enjoyed his work and made many lifelong friendships during his career.

He had many hobbies throughout his life, from shooting pool and hunting in his earlier years to watching western movies and OU football later on when his back injuries slowed him down. He loved cheering on his Denver Broncos and looked forward to his dinner dates with Susan where they’d go enjoy a good steak. He liked to go camping with his grandkids and received great joy from his unofficial role of smoke master as he’d smoke meat for all his family, friends and coworkers.Rick was known for his kind heart but also for his stubbornness. If he had his mind set on something, there was no changing it. In spite of his gruff demeanor, his grandchildren had him wrapped around their fingers. He would do anything for his family and was always there to lend a helping hand. Rick was a very special man and will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and his daughter Michelle Bruner. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Susan Bruner of Glenpool; his children: son John Bruner of Kiefer, daughter Crystal (Bruner) Tencleve and her husband Nick of Sapulpa; his grandchildren: Trent Mason, Haley Bruner, Bret Hites, Brennan Hites, Cole Hites and Kylee Bruner; his brother Randall Bruner and his wife Teresa of Jennings and many other family members and close friends.

Funeral Service will be at First Baptist Church, Glenpool, OK, at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 7th, with Reverend Jason Yarborough officiating. Interment will follow at Bixby Cemetery, Bixby, OK.