Thomas C. Brunkow

Thomas C. Brunkow, 77, of Avon Lake and formerly Sheffield Lake, Ohio, passed away Tuesday, October 29, 2024. He was born July 18, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, to parents, Herman and Mary (nee Brennan) Brunkow. Tom grew up in the Cleveland area and attended St. Edward's High School. He proudly served as a field medic in the U.S. Army, completing his tour of duty during the Vietnam War, from June 1967 to June 1969. For his dedicated service, Tom was awarded several honors, including the Silver Star, Purple Heart and two Bronze Stars. Tom returned home to the Cleveland area in 1969 and soon after met Sharon Parlock through mutual friends. They were married at St. Rose Church in Cleveland and eventually settled in Sheffield Lake to raise their family. Tom worked in sales, but later in his career was able to design outdoor spaces and lend his creative flair through landscaping. Tom loved to read, absorbing anything he could from the written word, instilling this love of reading into his children and grandchildren. He will be remembered for his outgoing demeanor and love of a good laugh. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Sharon Brunkow; beloved children, Sheila Venteicher (Christopher), Christopher Brunkow (Jennifer), and Laura Dennemann (Gary). He was the cherished Bubba of Elizabeth, Emily, Ben, Shannon, Maggie, Tessa, and Tommy; and brother-in-law of Bob Parlock (Allyson) and Bill Parlock. Memorial contributions in Tom's memory are recommended to Disabled American Veterans at https://www.ihelpveterans.org/ or Friendship APL at https://friendshipapl.org/donate-online/ Family will receive friends for visitation Monday, November 4, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m. in Busch Funeral Home, 163 Avon Belden Rd., Avon Lake, Ohio. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 715 Harris Rd., Sheffield Lake, Ohio. Private burial will be in Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery at a later date. www.buschcares.com, 440-933-3202