Robert "Bob" Brunning

Robert “Bob” Brunning, 84, of Amherst, Virginia, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025.

He was the son of the late George and Jane (Finer) Brunning of Rahway, NJ.

Bob loved nature, animals, fast cars, and good food and wine. Quick-witted and well-read, he was an independent, mechanically minded thinker who lived life on his own terms. He served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Forrestal, where he traveled to Italy, Greece, and Lebanon during his enlistment. He also enjoyed scuba diving in the Caribbean and spent many lazy days on the beaches of St. John and Tortola.

He built his career with Xerox Corporation in sales, technology, and training. Later, he devoted much of his time to renovating his old farmhouse and barn outside Princeton, NJ, before eventually moving to Virginia.

Bob is survived by his wife, Carolyn, and his children, Genevieve Fadool (Tim) and Christopher Brunning. He is also survived by his granddaughter, Alexandra Katherman, his sister, Pat Martin (Jim), his brothers-in-law, Bill Hughes (Vickie) and David Hughes (Diane), as well as many loving nephews and niece and good friends. His devoted border collie, Ms. Quigley, was by his side until the end.

When asked his opinion on controversial topics, he would simply say, “That’s why there’s chocolate AND vanilla.

The family would like Shannon Carter, Jenny Campbell from Centra Home Health Services, Rehabilitation Associates of Amherst and Centra Hospice for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the Amherst County Fire Department or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

A private burial will be held for the family. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Madison Heights is assisting the family.