Samuel W. Brunner Jr., age 92, of Crown Point, IN, passed away on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Sam was born in Blue Island, IL on January 21, 1932 to the late Samuel Sr. and Margaret (nee Suhs) Brunner and spent his early years living in Tinley Park, IL.

After graduating from Thornton Township High School, Sam studied mechanical engineering at the University of Illinois, which led to a lengthy career at the Illinois Central Gulf Railroad, where he worked in the engineering department until retirement in 1994.

Sam met the love of his life during his high school years and married Marlene Fraser in 1953. They raised four boys and enjoyed 65 years of marriage before her passing in 2019.

Sam is survived by his children: Mark (Deborah), Craig (Sandy), Paul (Sherry), and John (Kathy) Brunner; 10 grandchildren (8 girls and 2 boys); 9 great-grandchildren (8 boys and 1 girl); and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Sam was preceded in death by his sister, Betty (John) Landahl.

Sam was a long-time Homewood, IL resident, where he was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church. Sam lived at Wittenberg Village in Crown Point, IN for the past 13 years. He enjoyed traveling along with a little fishing, being outdoors, and striking up conversations with just about anyone he ran into. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at Wittenberg Village Crown of Life Chapel, 1200 E Luther Dr., Crown Point, IN 46307 from 10:00 AM until the time of the Funeral Service at 12:00 PM with Pastor Cory Wielert officiating.

Burial to follow at First Lutheran Evangelical Cemetery in Alsip, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in Sam’s name to Wittenberg Village Chapel.

Visit Sam’s online guestbook at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com. 219-663-2500