Don was born in Chicago on the 29th of September 1942. He attended Proviso High School as part of the class of 1960. After graduating, he studied photography at the Illinois Institute of Technology, where he began a lifelong interest in the Bauhaus design approach. While saving for his studies, Don started working at the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) as a conductor on the Lake Street “L.”
In 1965, he was drafted into the US Army. Don served in Vietnam as part of II Field Force, based out of Long Binh. During his tour of duty, he earned the rank of Specialist (E-4) and spent the majority of his time as a Jeep driver. His time spent in artillery would be the source of his long lasting hearing loss.
Don returned from Vietnam in 1968 and resumed his service at CTA, a career which spanned 44 years. While there, he was introduced to his future wife, Sharon, as well as a host of lifelong friends. During his tenure, Don worked his way up to the title of transit technician, tasked with solving problems in areas ranging from signage to rail operations. One of his proudest achievements was creating a successful layout for the reconstruction of the 54th and Cermak terminal. Don’s novel design offered a simple solution to the complexities presented by the narrow space available for the station.
In 1986, he became a father. Don, Sharon, and their son shared a passion for autocross and participated in many races throughout the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s. Don loved being part of both the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) and Alfa Romeo Owners Club.
Don is remembered as a mentor, creative problem solver, animal lover, and film buff. A lifelong enthusiast of electric railways, Don enjoyed the company of likeminded individuals, whom he affectionately dubbed the “Trolley Mafia.” He will be missed by many.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Marie Bruno, and his Timneh African grey parrot, Jinx. He is survived by his wife, Sharon D. Bruno, their son, Donald Bosan-Bruno, his dog, Isabella, his cat, Hannah, and his four doves.
In lieu of flowers, Don requested that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.
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