Jeffrey Brunner Obituary

Jeffrey J. Brunner

Feb 21, 1953 - Jan 16, 2026

Sandusky

Jeffrey Joseph Brunner, 72, of Sandusky, passed away Friday, January 16, 2026, at Firelands Regional Medical Center.

He was born February 21, 1953, in Sandusky, to Glen and Ruth (Butler) Brunner. Jeff was a graduate of Sandusky St. Mary's High School, Class of 1971.

Jeff proudly served his community in the fire service for 30 years, retiring as a Lieutenant with the City of Sandusky Fire Department. Prior to and during his career in Sandusky, he also served with Bay View Fire Department, where he held the role of Fire Chief, and served with Cedar Point Fire Department. His dedication to protecting others and serving his community was a defining part of his life and legacy.

Jeff was a dedicated member of AMVETS Post 17, American Legion, Orioles Club, Sandusky VFW and Eagles. He was a devoted attendee at the monthly firefighter retirees' breakfast at the American Legion.

In his spare time, Jeff adored going out to dinner with his loving wife and friends, riding his golf cart, valued working on projects in his garage and spending time with his family, especially his cherished grandchildren. Jeff enjoyed traveling with friends and was fortunate enough to see places as far as above the Arctic Circle, Key West, London and many more.

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Karen Sue (Alley) Brunner, whom he married August 19, 1977; his children, Jennifer (Joshua) Pickens, Joseph (Katie) Brunner, Jessica (David) Best, Kerrie Brunner, and Kellie Brunner; his honorary daughter, Stephanie (Neil) Cramp; his 10 grandchildren, Cameron, Phoenix, Caden, Carter, Addison, Aubrynn, Madalynn, Harper, Charlee, and Cooper; his mother, Ruth Brunner; his siblings, Glenda Petersen and Randall Brunner; his sister-in-law, Mary Brunner; along with many other family and friends who will dearly miss him.

In addition to his father, Jeff was preceded in death by his brother, Timothy Brunner; brothers-in-law, James Petersen and Robert M. Alley; sister-in-law, Patricia Brunner; parents-in-law, Robert and Janet Alley; and his nephew, Seth Petersen.

Friends may call from 2-7 p.m. Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky, Ohio 44870. A Sandusky Fire Department Last Call Service will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.

Those wishing to honor Jeff's memory may do so by making a contribution to Sandusky Fire Department Shoe Fund.

Condolences may be shared online at www.toftfuneralhome.com