Charlie James Bruner

Charlie James Bruner, 80 of Burlington, passed away Sunday, October 15, 2023 at the Durham VA Hospice Facility. Charlie was born December  12, 1942 in Surry County, NC to the late Roy Lester and the late Ida May Wood Bruner.

Charlie's early life was spent on the family farm raising tobacco and other vegetable crops. He often spoke of learning how to ride a horse at an early age as a means of transportation. Known for never meeting a stranger he was always up for a good time.

Charlie was a United States Coast Guard veteran entering service before he was 18 years old. He served as a quartermaster on the US Coast Guard Pistol and Rifle team. After leaving the United States Coast Guard, he returned to Alamance County and  began a long career as a mechanic. He owned and operated Bruner's Transmission and Auto Service in Elon for more than 20 years. He was know across the state for his mechanical abilities and ability to repair most anything.  In addition to auto repair, his passions included NASCAR racing, flowers, and loved his pets which at times included exotic animals and birds. His green thumb was often featured in local newspaper articles and TV news segments.

Charlie is survived by one son, Jimmy Bruner and wife Michelle, daughters, Elizabeth and Sarah of Cary NC. Daughter Melissa Rimmer and husband Brad of Burlington NC. Daughter Traci Cook and husband Jason, sons Owen and Talan of Graham NC. Additionally Charlie is survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Lester Bruner, Winford Bruner, Smith Wayne Bruner, John Henry Bruner, J.B. Bruner, Bobby Bruner and Harold Burner; and sisters Sally Eden, and Betty Bruner-Love.

The family will receive friends and family at McClure Funeral Home in Graham NC on Sunday, October 22nd from 3pm to 5pm. Charlie will be laid to rest at Salisbury National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Charlie to the Durham VA Medical Center at 508 Fulton Street, Durham NC 27705, the American Red Cross or your favorite charity. 

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