TORRINGTON – William F. Brunkow, 77, of Torrington, passed away on September 7, 2023 surrounded by family and friends.
He leaves behind a huge void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
William (Bill) was a unique man known for his entertaining stories and hilarious, sometimes inappropriate sense of humor.
He lived his life to the fullest with lots of laughter and joy.
Bill was born on Aug 24th, 1946, to Ernest F. Brunkow and Mary C, (Pyle) Brunkow in Torrington. He spent his childhood and school age years in Torrington, graduating from Torrington High School in 1964. He received his Masters in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wyoming in 1973. Kicking off his 40-plus years in the Engineering field.
On June 14, 1970, he married Sally Ann Schwartzkopf. From this marriage two beautiful daughters were born. Brandie Ann on September 18,1971 and Tammie Sue on November 2, 1973.
Through the years Bill enjoyed many hobbies. He was known for his guitar skills even being a part of two bands as the lead guitarist. He enjoyed fishing, camping, and hunting. He was an avid rockhound, referred to as the rock butcher creating beautiful jewelry, windchimes and coasters from his wild rock hunts. He loved to travel when he was younger on his motorcycle. But his favorite hobby was spending time with family.
Life was never dull with Bill. He loved mischief and would be heard saying it is what kept him young. He loved to play pranks and jokes on people forever asking someone to pull his finger or to look for the famous Rocky Mountain Barking Spider.
In 2009, Bill retired from the work force and became a full-time grandpa to his grandkids. He lived vicariously through his grandkids by taking them on adventures. Adventures that included fishing, camping, hunting, and day trips to museums or historical places.
He was never happier then when he was around his grandkids and beloved pets.
He is survived by his daughters, Brandie Ann Rojas of Mineral Wells Texas, Tammie Sue Brunkow of Casper, his sister Beverly Rodriquez of Gering. Nebraska, Niece Amanda Sorenson of Omaha, Nebraska, five grandkids, five great-grandkids, dear friends Sally Brunkow, Stormy and Donald Aipperspach, three great nieces and one great-grand niece.
He is preceded in death by his mother Mary C. (Pyle) Brunkow, Father Ernest F. Brunkow and baby sister Mary Brunkow.
A grave site service will be held on October 7, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. in the Torrington Cemetary in Torrington with a gathering at Sheep Creek to follow the service.
