Richard M. Bruhns

April 5, 1940 - March 9, 2023

In Napa, CA, a 5th generation San Franciscan, our dear Rich lost his courageous 18 month battle with esophageal cancer after surviving two previous bouts of cancer. Rich had a joie de vivre that was infectious to all who knew him. Humor and fun were things he sought in all he did. A talented self-taught musician on the ukulele, guitar, banjo and hammered dulcimer, he was always looking for the latest thing to challenge him. Black and white photography, woodworking, Hawaiian feather art, poetry, scuba diving, skiing, duck hunting and swing dancing were among the many things he loved to do. An all-city swimmer in high school, he was a member of the Dolphin Club and swam across the Golden Gate multiple times. Besides all he loved in his life, he loved his family above everything. He was so proud of them that he would brag about them to anyone who would listen.

Predeceased by adored son Gary Bruhns and his loving parents Helen and Henry Bruhns, Rich is survived by his adored wife Sally of 61 years; his beloved daughter Renee and Rich Duran; adored son Greg and Mo Bruhns; adored grandchildren Ellie and Amy Bruhns; and Spencer, Cooper and Calvin Bruhns. Also greatly loved friends Roger, Kareen, Mel, Colin, Harriet, Louie and many other friends and family.

Rich attended West Portal, Aptos, Lincoln HS and City College in SF before heading to Cal in Berkeley where he met and married Sally, the love of his life, while they were students at Cal. He was a loyal Old Blue his whole life – GO BEARS! After graduation with a BA in Geography, he was a member of UA Local 38 Plumbers Union; had a teaching credential and taught at the apprenticeship school; worked as a plumbing contractor; as a wholesale supplier with his father at Bruhns Plumbing Supply; and finished as a purchasing agent at AR&B Mechanical Contractors.

Upon retirement and moving to Napa Rich became a Master Gardener of Napa County where he met and made many good friends and where he learned to grow the most delicious heirloom tomatoes.

His most favorite thing to do other than being with family and friends was drinking a Mai Tai at the bar in Kimo’s on Maui while watching the sunset.

Rich had a warm heart and a beautiful soul and will be greatly missed by those who knew him. We shall not see his like again.

Special thanks to Dr. Ari and staff at the Cancer Center in St. Helena as well as the many doctors who cared for him over the years. A Celebration of His Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.