Robert Thomas Bruner

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Lieutenant Colonel Robert Thomas Bruner, United States Marine Corps (Ret.), on January 14, 2025, at the age of 86. A proud Marine and dedicated patriot, Bob’s life was marked by his steadfast service to his country, his love for his family, and his passion for the outdoors.

Born on January 21, 1938, Bob was a man of principle and purpose. He served with distinction in the U.S. Marine Corps for 26 years, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His service included participation in the Battle of Khe Sanh as part of First Battalion, Ninth Marines, “The Walking Dead,” where he displayed extraordinary courage and leadership. His military awards and decorations include the Bronze Star with combat “V,” Purple Heart with two stars, Vietnam Service Medal with one star, Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Action Ribbon and numerous other commendations for his service in both combat and humanitarian missions.

After retiring from the military, Bob continued to serve his community in various leadership roles, including positions with the City of Corpus Christi, where he was the Superintendent of the Marina, the Director of Parks & Recreation, and the Director of Solid Waste Services (honored with Department of the Year in 1991). He later co-founded Bruner and Associates, an environmental and management consulting firm, and founded ZipFly, a company specializing in fly-fishing supplies. Bob was also a mud engineer with Magabar-Dresser.

Bob was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, shooting, golfing, tying flies  and leather crafts. He was also a dedicated teacher, imparting his knowledge and skills to others with patience and humor. A proud Marine, Bob’s commitment to God, country and family were always paramount. His quick wit, engaging storytelling and boundless energy will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Bruner, of Georgetown, Texas; his daughters, Blyth Swartsfager of Odem, Texas, and Tracy Yeary of Aransas Pass, Texas; his granddaughters, Ambra Sherrod of Jackson, Michigan, and Rachel Tysdal of New Braunfels, Texas; and his great-grandson, Kyler Tysdal.

In honor of his legacy, the family requests that donations be made to his charity of choice, St. Jude’s or Shriner’s, in lieu of flowers.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at a later date at Memory Gardens in Corpus Christi followed by the inurnment with Military Honors rendered by the United States Marine Corps. His family takes great comfort in knowing that his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rest in peace, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Thomas Bruner—an American hero, a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and a true friend.