Melvin James Bruner

Melvin James Bruner, age 91, of Cromwell, IN passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at Orchard Pointe in Kendallville, IN. He was born October 27, 1928 the son of Albert and Mary (Connell) Bruner in Bellevue, OH.

Melvin graduated from Bellevue High School in 1946 and retired from Nickel Plate Railroad, later Norfolk & Western as an Engineer after over 33 years of service. He was a fifty year, 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite in Fort Wayne and Shriners. He was also a member of the Cromwell United Methodist Church, loved dogs, and cherished his home and land. His true lifelong passion was woodworking and he made countless unique pieces of furniture over the years, including his own solid walnut casket.

Melvin is survived by four children, Larry (Judy) Bruner of Wolcottvile, IN, Susan (David) Neal of Auburn, IN, James Bruner of Rockville, IN, Nancy (Dan) Odell of White Pigeon, MI; 10 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren; along with five great-great-grandchildren, and one on the way.

Melvin was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Schieber-Bruner in 2014 and was previously married to Hilda Louise (Bruner) Parson who passed away in 2004; and a daughter-in-law, Lexa Bruner.

A funeral service will be held in Melvin’s honor on Monday, September 21, 2020 at 5pm at Yeager Funeral Home, 1589 Lincolnway South, Ligonier, IN 46767. Pastors Marilyn Gebert and Rachel Bales-Case will officiate. Burial will follow at Sparta Cemetery in Kimmell, IN.

Family and friends will be received from 3-5 pm on Monday September 21, 2020 prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Cromwell United Methodist Church.