Eric Charles Brunnich

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Eric Brunnich, age 78, on August 5, 2024. Eric was born on April 4, 1946, in Milwaukee, WI to Will Charles Brunnich and Lena Krieg Brunnich. His sister, Alice Yolande Land and half-sister, Meta Schmechel, preceded him in death. In 1968 Eric married Patricia Bonnet with whom he was married for 22 years. Their daughter Gabriel, was born on May 10, 1977. On November 23, 1990, Eric married Judith (Judy), with whom he was married for 34 years. 

Surrounded by his loving family, Eric spent his final days peacefully at home by Judy’s side and being cared for by for by his daughter Gabriel, step-son Brian and son-in-law, Mickaël.

Eric obtained his masters of science in social work (MSSW) in clinical social work from the University of Wisconsin Madison in 1972. Member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers, Eric was a licensed clinical social worker. During his forty-two years with Sheboygan County Health and Human Services, Eric worked as an out-patient clinical social worker, out-patient clinical supervisor, and as the clinical supervisor and then director of the Community Support Program (CSP). Eric was deeply fulfilled by his work and dedicated his life to serving others and supporting those living with mental illness. Touching many lives through his compassion and care, Eric was a man of great integrity, giving selflessly, loving generously, without judgment. 

Eric was a man of deep faith, finding joy in his family, friends, music, and a profound love for God and His creation. He had a passion for music, including playing the guitar and harmonica, going to the symphony, movies, home interiors, car detailing, and studying history, particularly Christian and Judaic traditions. 

His selfless spirit shone brightest in his care for his wife of 34 years, Judy. Eric's unwavering love, dedication and tender care were evident in the countless ways he supported and cherished her throughout their life together. His love for Judy was steadfast, and his actions spoke volumes about his compassionate, nurturing nature.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy, and his children: Gabriel (Mickael) Brunnich Dunand, Wendy (John) Tauscheck, Todd (Barb) Anderson, Scott Anderson and Brian Anderson. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Erika (Rocklin) Farquhar, Emily Tauscheck, Ariana (Derek) Buehner, Katelyn Anderson, Claire Anderson, Noah Anderson, Raphael Dunand, and Amael Dunand, as well as his great-grandchildren, Taylor and Kora Farquhar; nephew Jerry Schmechel and family, niece Linda Natynski and family and niece Elaine Chalmers and family. 

The family would like to extend special, heartfelt thanks to Brian, not only for being a dedicated caregiver to Judy and Eric, but also for being a true friend. Your love and companionship meant the world to Eric, Judy, and the entire family.

A funeral service to celebrate Eric's life will be held on Friday, August 9, 2024 at 3:00pm at First United Lutheran Church in Sheboygan. Visitation will be held at church from 2:00pm until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First United Lutheran Church, The Leprosy Mission, Mercy Ships, or The Smile Train, honoring Eric's spirit of giving.

Before his death, Eric expressed the wish that his funeral be one of thankfulness and gladness in the knowledge that he is now with Jesus, and that any tears that are shed be mixed with tears of joy as, in his words “All is well with my soul.” He also expressed his wish that his epitaph be “He served His Maker.” In preparing for his passing, Eric specifically wanted to celebrate the four most important gifts he has received in his life: his Faith, notably being baptized child of God and having an unshakable faith in God and Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior; his daughter Gabriel; his wife Judy; and the gift of service to others “…to the countless, confused, accused, misused, strung out ones and worse” to quote Bob Dylan, 1964, one of his sources of musical inspiration. 

Eric’s life motto was “Give what you cannot keep, gain what you cannot lose.” His giving spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

The staff of Wenig Funeral Home in Sheboygan Falls (920-467-3431) is assisting the family. Please visit wenigfh.com for more information.