John Harry Bruno

John Harry Bruno, 88, of Bonita Springs, FL, formerly of Trumbull, CT, died on Monday, June 22, 2015 just one day shy of his 89th birthday. He leaves his wife of 57 years, Patricia (Curley) Bruno, his son, John Bruno, his daughter, Carol Bruno, his daughter Jane (Bruno) Stephenson and her husband Frank Stephenson, his two grandsons, Sean and Christopher Stephenson and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his eight brothers and sisters and his son William “Billy” Bruno. Born and raised in Ansonia, Connecticut, he was the son of Michael and Virginia Bruno of Naples, Italy. After proudly serving his country with the US Navy during World War ll, John attended Arnold College where he received a bachelor’s degree in physical education; Columbia University Teachers College, NYC where he received a master’s in education; and Fairfield University where he earned his sixth-year degree in education and administration. John taught elementary education at Glenville Elementary, Greenwich, CT and then spent thirty years teaching sixth grade math and science at Nichols and Booth Hill Elementary Schools in Trumbull. In 1971, at the age of 45, he survived a near fatal car accident. After a year-long recovery, he enthusiastically returned to the classroom. Throughout his years in Trumbull, John was active in the Trumbull High School Scholarship Program, Trumbull Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies and Trumbull Day. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 141 where he served as Commander and Chief and was active in the American Legion Baseball league. He was a sports enthusiast and played minor league baseball in VA, and was a handball champion throughout his youth. He was an avid New York Yankees and Giants fan. He was passionate about writing poetry. Among the poems he wrote, “The Loyal Legionnaire” was made the state poem for the Connecticut American Legion. He often volunteered his time in local hospitals, such as Leesburg Memorial in Leesburg, FL. A private service will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at the Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home at 28300 Tamiami Trail South, Bonita Springs, FL, 34134. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Joanne’s House at Hope Hospice, 27200 Imperial Parkway, Bonita Springs, FL, 34145 or the American Legion, Post 141 in Trumbull, CT. A memorial service in Trumbull, CT will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home.

John Harry Bruno

June 23, 1926 - June 22, 2015