In Memoriam: Longtime Rumsonite Jim Brunner, 66

“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard but always near. Still loved, still missed, so very dear.”

Longtime Rumsonite James “Jim” Thomas Brunner passed away on Dec. 7, 2023. He was 66. A service is now set for April 20.

“True to character, his passing was the classic Irish exit with no long difficult goodbyes. After a valiant battle with cancer, he went quickly and peacefully, sparing his family any extended suffering with his departure, his final act of love and devotion … Married in 1990, Jim lived and raised his two beautiful daughters in Rumson. They were his greatest pride and joy, and he would tell you just that any chance he got. He loved spending summers at the beach with friends and family and enjoyed rooting for the Giants, but only if they won. Jim was one of a kind, there was no one quite like him. He was generous, warm, and always spoke his mind. He was always undeniably himself and we will miss his quick wit and unforgettable sense of humor. Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and we will cherish his memory every day.”
Loved ones of Jim Brunner in his obituary

Raised in Colts Neck, Jim graduated from Christian Brothers Academy in 1975. He continued his education, first attending Temple University, then graduating from The University of Rhode Island.

He grew up working at his family’s local construction business and eventually established his own company, CNC Construction, which developed many neighborhoods in the Colts Neck area. Jim later transitioned to a career with M&M Knopf and LKQ Corporation in the automotive parts industry.

Jim was predeceased by: his parents, Betty Jane and James Brunner; sister in-law, Patricia Campi Lyon; and brother in-law Charles Raines.

Jim is survived by: his wife, Diane; his beloved daughters and their spouses, Ashley and Nicholas Frangipane, Emily and Joseph Brunetto; brother, John Brunner; nephews, Kyle and Connor; brother in-law, James Lyon; nephew, Thomas, and niece, Sarah; sister in-law, Kasey Ordway Raines; and many loving Brunner cousins.

“Perhaps my time seemed all too brief — Don’t shorten yours with undue grief. Be not burdened with tears of sorrow, enjoy the sunshine of the morrow.”

For friends and family to celebrate Jim’s life, please join us for a memorial service at St. Georges-by-the-River, 7 Lincoln Ave., Rumson, on Saturday, April 20, at noon. A reception will follow at the family’s home.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via John E. Day Funeral Home