Survived by wife of 61 years, Marie; twin son and daughter, Michael and Maria of Louisville, KY; daughter Lisa of Aventura, FL; sister, Josephine of West Chester, PA; brother, Frank of Uwchland, PA; several nephews, great nephews, nieces and great nieces; preceded in death by siblings, Victor, Henry and Mary
Born in West Chester, PA discipline and sacrifice played key roles in his spectacular athletic career. Al lettered in football, baseball, basketball and track at West Chester High School and Perkiomen Prep. He was a member of the University of Kentucky National Championship Football Team coached by the legendary Paul "Bear" Bryant. Al also was a member of the University of Kentucky National Championship Basketball Team coached by the legendary Adolph Rupp. After graduating he was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, opted to take his talents north of the border to the Canadian Football League, a more lucrative decision in those times.
In 1952 he joined the Toronto Argonauts and was selected to the All-Canadian First Team, leading in pass and TD receptions during the Argonauts' Grey Cup Championship season.
Al also played for Ottawa and Winnipeg. He coached at Ottawa and Hamilton of the Canadian Football League, returned to the U.S. to coach at Harvard University, then returned to Canada as head coach of the Hamilton Tigercats where he made 4 Grey Cup appearances in 6 years, brought the cup home in "86" and with it was selected as Canadian Football League Coach of the Year.
Al was inducted into 4 Halls of Fame including the Chester County Sports hall of Fame and the University of Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame lettering in football, basketball and track.
Throughout his career Al helped many student athletes to further their education. He was involved in many charitable activities, most dear to Al was helping special needs kids. He always reached out to help people and always had a smile on his face. Al Bruno was loved by everyone who crossed his path.
A Memorial Mass will be at San Antonio Catholic Church in Port Charlotte on Thursday, October 9, 2014 at 11:00 AM. Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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