Paul Fredrick Brunke Jr, age 69, passed away suddenly on Friday, February 27, 2026. Paul was born on February 1, 1957, in Garden City, Michigan to parents Paul Fredrick Brunke Sr. and Donna Dee Brandt.
Paul moved with his family to Arizona at the age of 16 and has called Arizona his home for the last 56 years. Before retiring, Paul was a sanitation engineer for over 40 years, working with City of Mesa, and Town of Gilbert to name a few.
Although Paul and Maureen were not each other's first loves, after meeting in 1993, and sharing a friendship, they started what would be their love story. Paul and Maureen had three children, Ashley and Nicole, whom he lovingly embraces as his own, and their daughter together, Danielle. After starting their family, they were later married on January 22, 2000.
Paul had a love for fishing, hunting, and camping. Often found in his boat on the lake or shore side, baiting a hook with some corn, or hunting and scouting the woods with his brother Phil for deer and elk. Being up in Northern Arizona was his happy place, and he loved to take his family on adventures. You could often find the garage door open and Paul having a smoke, enjoying a pop. Paul was so happy to be able to become a grandpa, having a special relationship with each of his grandchildren. They were often found, dancing in the kitchen, laughing, or sneaking cookies together.
He is preceded in passing by his mother, Donna Dee Pulford, father Paul Fredrick Brunke Sr, sisters Barbara Robles and Andrienne Robles. Paul will be dearly missed by all of those who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Maureen Brunke, his daughters, Ashley (Cody) Williams, Nicole Fountaine, and Danielle Brunke, grandchildren, MacKenzie Williams, Anthony Williams, Brandon Williams, and Charlotte Williams, his brother, Phil Brunke, and his sister, Cheryl Brunke.
Paul’s wishes were for his family and friends to remember him in the many memories that they have with him and not to have anything formal. So as you take a moment to reflect, keep Paul and his family in your hearts. At a later date, Paul will be laid to rest next to his mother at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park in Mesa, Arizona.
