Darrick Maurice Bruns

Darrick married the love of his life, Kim (Chiles) Bruns, on August 21, 1989 and they had two children. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving grandfather. One of his greatest joys was being “Papa” to his granddaughter, Rowan, for whom he lovingly wrote a book of his life—ensuring she would always know where she came from, who her Papa was, and the adventures that shaped her family.

Professionally, Darrick served with pride in law enforcement for more than 20 years, carrying himself with respect, integrity, and honesty. He often wore a tough exterior that couldn’t fully hide who he really was, a soft-hearted, deeply compassionate man. Darrick was selfless, empathetic, genuine, loyal, and trustworthy—someone you could count on, someone who meant what he said, and someone who quietly took care of others without seeking recognition.

His entry into public schools as a School Resource Officer became the unexpected beginning of his journey into teaching. That path led him to Northland Career Center and SkillsUSA, where he built a successful law enforcement and crime scene investigation program from the ground up. For 19 years, he took great pride in helping guide and inspire young people with a desire to serve others.

His passion for education extended beyond the classroom. In the past year, he devoted himself to writing an instructional book based on his teaching experiences, now published as The Teacher’s Teacher, created to support educators and promote student success.

Outside of work, Darrick’s interests were as wide-ranging as his curiosity. He loved cooking, gardening, photography, history, tinkering in his wood shop, and the great outdoors—especially hunting, fishing, and camping. He was a loyal fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals, enjoyed art (including his recent enthusiasm for pour painting), and had a particular fondness for good food and collecting “useless information.”

Darrick lived a life rich in service, and just enough mischief to keep everyone on their toes. Known for his ornery sense of humor and love of “shock value,” he was a master storyteller who never let the facts get in the way of a good tale—especially if it earned a laugh or made a point. He often summed up his philosophy on life with one of his favorite quotes, “Life is tough. It’s tougher if you’re stupid.”

One of his most legendary traditions was Meat Palooza, an annual summertime gathering he co-created and proudly hosted for friends. Equal parts food, fun, and flair for the dramatic, Meat Palooza featured exotic meats from around the world—prepared and served by him and his closest friends with great enthusiasm and, of course, a healthy dose of shock value. It was a perfect reflection of who he was, generous, adventurous, and happiest when bringing people together.

More than anything, he will be remembered for his steady presence, generous heart, and the way he made life more interesting simply by being in the room.

His legacy is one of service, learning, laughter, and love—and a reminder that while life may be tough, it’s always better faced with integrity, humor, and a really good story.

He is survived by his wife; daughter, Brittany Fitzgerald (Justin) and Rowan; son, Seth Bruns; mother, Judy Bruns; sister, Amy Castillo (Michael); sisters-in-law, Julie Chowning (Mike) and Jamie Chiles; nieces and nephews, Paige Castillo, Emily Chowning, Caleb Chowning (Alaze), and Lyndsey Church (Adrian); and many extended family members and friends. Darrick also leaves behind his beloved dogs, Emma, Tucker, and Cooper, who were his constant companions and loyal listeners.

He was preceded in death by his father, Henry “Hank” Bruns; his grandparents; and his cherished pets, Lexi and Dottie.

A visitation will be held 1:30-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at McGilley Antioch Chapel, 3325 Northeast Vivion Road, Kansas City, MO, followed by a memorial service at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Darrick’s honor to the “Officer Bruns Memorial Scholarship,” in care of Kim Bruns. Contributions will support Northland Career Center’s criminal justice students.