Henry Bruenning, 85, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away on September 28, 2026. He was born on December 31, 1940, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Henry and Helen Bruenning, and made Sarasota his home for most of his adult life.
Henry served his country in the United States Air Force and is a Vietnam veteran. He later put his skill and devotion to work as an aircraft mechanical engineer, primarily for Agape Flights, where he served for 15 years.
Henry was a man of many passions. He loved fishing, fast cars, airplanes, and motorcycles. He took great pride in brewing his own beer and baking his own bread. He was endlessly creative, and his metal sculptures reflected the artistic spirit he carried through life. Above all, he treasured time spent with family and friends.
He is survived by his son, John, and daughter-in-law, Kirsten; his daughter, Nicole; his grandchildren, Alyssa, Finley, and Hunter; his great-grandchildren, Abigail and Justin; and his brother, Joseph. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Helen; his brother, Tommy; and his wife, Karen.
A military service will be held on Monday, November 9, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Sarasota National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made as donations to Tidewell Hospice or the Sarasota Sharks.
He lived fully, built with his hands, and loved his family fiercely. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
