Kenneth “Ken” Bruner

Kenneth “Ken” Bruner passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Feb.14, 2026.

He was born on June 19, 1947, in the Town of Ogema, located in the “Northwoods” of Wisconsin, to William “Bill” and Joyce (Peterson) Bruner.

Ken spent his early childhood growing up on a dairy farm.  He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1971 with a master’s degree in statistics.

In February 1970, Ken married Kathy Huiras, and together they had two children, Angela and John.

On Feb. 22, 1989, Ken married the love of his life, Suzanne “Sue” Montalto (Manschot). Together they spent their life in Port Washington and enjoyed 33 years with one another.

Ken worked many years at Portal Industries, then transitioned to sales at Verlo Mattresses while dabbling in real estate at Schmit Realty.

He loved spending time with his family, traveling throughout the country and going on cruises with Sue. Ken enjoyed summers at Big Cedar Lake and involvement with Fish Day, the Historical Society and Interfaith Caregivers.

Ken had a great sense of humor, enjoyed trivia and family history and was a Scrabble “champion.” He was a kind and generous person, always ready to lend a hand whenever he could. Ken cherished regaling his family and friends with tales of his lumberjack days, hunting and other slightly fantastic and amusing stories. He will be missed!

Ken is survived by his children Angela (Jeff Ready) Bruner and John (Robin) Bruner; stepchildren John (Annie) Groth, Steve Groth and Katie (Tom) Beilfuss; grandchildren Jesse, Morgan and Molly Bruner, Kari (Vince) Anewenter, John (Julieann Pizzaro) Manschot, Joshua (Sheena) Beilfuss, Lindsey (Jake) Tess, Jennifer (Carrell) Jackson and Melissa (Thad) Smith;  and nine great-grandchildren.

He is further survived by his brother Charlie (Jean) Bruner, sister-in-law Jackie Dietzler, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Joyce, wife Sue and grandsons Aaron and Mathew Groth.

A memorial gathering will take place on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington, WI 53074, from noon to 2 p.m.  Ken will be laid to rest next to Sue at St. Mary’s Cemetery at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Interfaith Caregivers of Ozaukee County, www.interfaithozaukee.org/donate.

Eernisse Funeral Home of Port Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.