Lee Arnold Brunken, 78, of Land O’ Lakes, Florida, passed away on June 25, 2023. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Wood-Brunken; his daughters, Lisa (Oliver) Coleman and Diana (Randy) Stanley; his five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Lee was born during the war. His father Helmut Brunken was drafted at the age of 35. Family was shocked. Helmut served in the Coast Guard as a personal chef to the Captain. Super cook. Lee’s mother, Rigmor Olsen Brunken was from Denmark. They met while Rigmor was a hat check girl at the Bay Shore Country Club and Helmut was a Valet.
Lee was on only child. They were very devoted to each other and taught lee fishing, golf and how to enjoy life.
Lee entered into the Air Force in 1966 and stationed in Alaska for one year. After discharge Lee joined NAPA in 1966 as a delivery driver and retired in 2008 after 42 years as new store sales of all central Iowa and local manager of 13 stores and retired to Tampa. Lee excelled in sales and training new employees and managers. He loved people and always helped all he could.
Jenny and Lee were married in October 1970. We had lots of fun at the Island’s Club on Davis Island in the 70’s. We married for 53 years. Had 2 daughters Lisa and Diana. Now we have 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Lee always said we are so blessed with our family. The kids and grandchildren are just the love of his life. Always bragging.
After Lee’s retirement from NAPA Lee started working at Enterprise rent-a-car. He loved it. Customers were always asking for lee or he would give them his cell phone number to call him directly.
Lee’s last position was on a Drive Team. They would cargo van with 5 people to pick up cars and deliver them to other locations all over the central area. His drive team was very special to Lee because they spoiled him rotten. He loves each one of them. Thank you, Peter, Shannon, Tracy and Jonas and especially Kathy the store manager.
Rhonda Rupe Kurtz
June 28, 2023, 10:54 pm
My heart goes out to the Brunken family. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May our God hold you close and comfort you . May God bless you and keep you in peace.
All my love, Rhonda Rupe
MICHAEL J. DENISON
June 29, 2023, 1:27 pm
Lee, you were a great man and a great boss, you were loved by so many because of your nature, in today’s world it’so hard to find that in people. You’ll be missed by so many. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Brunken family, and all those who Lee touched throughout his life. All our love, Michael and Patty Denison.