Stephen "Steve" M. Brunner

Stephen M. Brunner (Steve), 82, of Athens, passed away at home, surrounded by his devoted family, on Saturday, October 1st, 2022.  Steve was born on December 1st, 1939, in Battle Creek, to Merle and Frances (Cunic) Brunner of Athens.

He graduated from Athens High School and attended Michigan State University. On May 28th, 1959, he married Marilyn Charlene Otis.  They were happily married for over 60 years.

Steve was a renowned businessman recognized by his family, friends and community for years of service and countless accomplishments, the greatest being his family.

Steve was a member of the Athens Rotary Club and the Athens Masonic Lodge. He received an award for 50 years with the Masonic Lodge. Steve and Marilyn were the Athens Homecoming Honor Citizens in July 2014.

He was a member of the Sundowners Jeep Club.

Over the years, Steve established many successful businesses and organizations, the Marauders MC, the Pistolero Gun Shop, Hammerstone Storage Rentals and Brunner Insurance Agency, to name a few. He and his wife also operated their countryside farm where they resided for most of their lives.

Along with Steve's work ethic was his ability to entertain.  His charismatic, authentic personality captured the hearts of those that knew him best and intrigued those he had just met.  You could always count on a "good time" with Steve, no occasion required.   He enjoyed porch conversations and shop talk over beverages, motorcycle rides, family dinners, lakeside adventures, shooting and holiday parties.   His hobbies and adventures were endless, as he loved to indulge in the pleasures that distracted from negativity, most always shared with people he cherished.   One thing Steve consistently provided were places to share these adventures.  During his lifetime, he and his wife owned an island, lakefront cabins in Wellston, lake house in Colon, clubhouse near Tekonsha, their farm and several other residential and business properties.   Family and friends will relish the lifetime of memories created at these places.

We will always remember Steve for his ability to live life to the very fullest without regrets, that genuine laugh, and the legacy of family and long-lasting friendships.

Steve and Marilyn donated their building on the main four corners of Athens (formerly Brunner Insurance Agency), to the Athens Historical Society...where it resides today.

Stephen is survived by his caring and tenacious daughters, Stefanie (John) Murphy of Athens, Rebecca Brunner-Klein of Kalamazoo; the proud grandfather of Nathan (Melissa) Klein of Battle Creek, Laura (Kyle) Mutch of Battle Creek, Samantha (Alex) Latta of Battle Creek; elated great-grandfather of Patrick, AJ, Camden, Grace and Elsie Marilyn.  His sister, Patricia Hoag of Battle Creek, and his two brothers, Randy Cunic of Whitehall, Bradley (Laura) Cunic of Hendersonville, SC and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life...Marilyn in 2020, with whom he shared over 60 beautiful years together, with many beloved pets.  His parents and grandparents, his brother Michael (Mickey) Cunic and his stepfather Michael Richard (Dick) Cunic.

Stephen was cremated and laid to rest by his faithful and loving family at the Burr Oak Cemetery in Athens.

Memorial donations may be made to the Athens Historical Society.

Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 2838 Capital Ave., SW Battle Creek, Michigan 49015. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.