Walter Bruggeman

Walter W. Bruggeman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, is journeying forward in spirit having left his physical being here on earth, March 1, 2017. A memorial service will be held at 11:30 am Monday, March 6, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck. Cremation has taken place. Walter was born December 9, 1925, south of Mandan, to Henry and Evelyn (Chyles) Bruggeman. His early life was spent on a farm; he attended country schools. You would often hear him say, “he walked uphill both ways” that is unless he rode his horse Trigger. When at the age of 18 his country called, Trigger was put out to pasture, since no one else could ride him. He became a member of the 164th Infantry Division, 6th Army, 41st Division under General MacArthur serving two years in the Asiatic Pacific. He spent time in the Philippines, Okinawa, and Japan. At the time of his discharge he became a member of the VFW and the American Legion, sustaining continuous membership for 71 years. Walt was passionate about bowling; participating as the Men’s Commercial League Secretary for many years as well as holding membership in several other leagues. This led him to travel to Cincinnati for the 63rd Peterson Classic. Bowling was not the only hobby he enjoyed. His abilities included designing and building many and varied wood projects including special requests from family. Planning, planting, and tending a garden flush with summer favorites. Walt loved animals but especially loved spoiling his Corgi’s, Burton, Pepper, and Minti, who in turn reaped the benefits of his garden. Although hobbies were an intricate part of his life; he was musically talented having taught himself piano, accordion, concertina and harmonica. All these loves have been shared by his wife, children, and grandchildren. Walter is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jane; daughters, Rebecca (Tom) Szurek, MN, Mary (Duane) Materi, Bismarck; grandchildren, Michael Obenauer, LA, Jesse (Mariah) Hill, Bismarck, Dennis B. (Marisa) Hill, MN, Sara Materi, Mandan, Shannon (Jeff) Davison, Bismarck, Joe (Shelbi) Szurek, CA, Jacqueline Szurek, MN; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Raymann and Henry; one sister, Ethel Rychlik; two grandsons, Dion Obenauer and Jeremy Hill; and one granddaughter, TiAre Obenauer.