Constance Marie Van Bruwaene

Our beloved mother and grandmother, affectionately known as “Grammy,” passed away peacefully on September 4, 2026, at the age of 88. In the final months of her life, she remained in good spirits, full of her trademark tenacity, and was surrounded each day by the family she cherished so deeply.

Connie was born on December 3, 1937, in Galesburg, Illinois, to Matthew and Thelma Onderko, and grew up alongside her brother, Jack. She attended Corpus Christi High School, where she thrived as a cheerleader and was crowned homecoming queen. Connie continued her education at St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing in Peoria, Illinois. It was here that her life changed forever when, on a blind date, she met the love of her life, Raymond T. Van Bruwaene. They married in 1960 and welcomed five children—two born in Peoria, two in Cincinnati, and their youngest in Dallas.

In 1972, Ray’s career brought the family to Washington State, where Mercer Island became their home and remained so for the next 54 years. Connie devoted herself to raising their children, managing their busy schedules, and driving more carpools than anyone could count. The family station wagon became a familiar sight, traveling up and down the Island countless times each day. In her spare time, Connie was an avid tennis player which later evolved into golf. She treasured her time at the Bellevue Athletic Club, both on the court and working at the boutique Changes, where she formed lifelong friendships and nurtured her passion for fashion and design. Connie was known—and adored for her impeccable sense of fashion and style.

Family was always the center of Connie's life, and becoming a grandmother to five brought her immeasurable happiness. Connie and Ray embraced their roles as devoted grandparents, helping with childcare, attending school events, cheering at sports games, celebrating birthdays, and making all gatherings special. Connie especially loved the holiday season and delighted in decorating her home, carrying on family traditions and bringing everyone together. One of the fondest family traditions was the July 4th trip to Cannon Beach, Oregon, where the family gathered annually for over 25 years. The memories she created will be treasured forever.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, and her husband of 59 years, Raymond Van Bruwaene. She is survived by her five children—Mike Van Bruwaene (Monica), Debbie Watt, Susan Chandler, Karen McAvinew, and Kelly Van Bruwaene—and her five adoring grandchildren: Michael Van Bruwaene, Ellie Watt, Katie Watt, Sydney McAvinew, and Natalie Brin.

Connie, forever "Grammy" to those who loved her most, will be remembered and deeply missed by the family to whom she devoted her life. A Memorial Mass will be held on November 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Monica’s Catholic Church, 4315 88th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA. A reception will follow.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers who provided Connie with compassionate care over the past several years, including those at Golden Ages Retirement Home, Kline Galland, and many more. A special thank you to Eagen & Assocs for the invaluable guidance provided to the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Sound Generations in Connie's memory.