James Anthony Bruns, Sr.

James Anthony Bruns, Sr., age 88, born on March 27, 1935, in Dayton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 07, 2024 in Indio, California. He resided in Chatsworth, CA at the time of his passing. He leaves behind four children, Marina Macias, Rosanna Bruns, Elizabeth Bruns and James Anthony Bruns, Jr., his seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Dad lived a long and loved life. Born without much, he joined the United States Marine Corp. at a young age to escape poverty and the cold weather of Ohio. After serving time in Korea as a Marine, he was then stationed in Camp Pendleton where he met the love of his life, Rose Marie Gonzalez and then married her on March 2, 1957.

After his discharge from the Marine Corp., he moved his small family to Los Angeles, CA. Dad was a true vision of a hard working man. He worked in the baking industry, starting from sanitation and retiring as Chief Engineer. During that time in the baking industry, he often held a second job and made many sacrifices to give his family a better life than he had growing up. 

Dad's passion was for cars and there wasn't anything he didn't know about repairing them. His true passion was customizing them. Known in the "Custom Culture" as Senior, he made his mark by building a 1936 Ford Coupe also known as The Black Dahlia. Gaining a rewarding reputation as a custom car builder, he won many awards over the years for the work his hands, heart and vision crafted. Leading him to pave the way for many, he created Bruns Kustom City in Chatsworth, CA.

Dad was the most respected man we know. His honest words, and playful ways could leave someone guessing if he was just yanking their chain or really trying to get them out of his garage. He could be playful, yet stern, and you always knew when to stop. Dad had plenty of stories to tell about his up bringing, adventures as a Marine, a husband, father and friend. With an outstanding taste in music, the love for oldies has been instilled in his family.  For each song, we share our own memory. 

Dad has always been the pillar in our family and created a legendary life of accomplishment for his time. His vibrant and shocking blue eyes were captivating with perseverance. His beautiful, big, ear to ear smile and laugh was undoubtedly contagious. His heart and spirit were one of a kind and will forever be missed.

Nothing will ever be the same without the man we call dad, grandpa and papa.  We love and we'll miss you forever dad.  Thank you for the love, the laughs and all our memories!