Richard Lee Bruns, age 79, passed away on November 21, 2025, at his home in Tucson, AZ. He was born on March 31, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio. He was the son of the late John Donald and Margaret Bruns. At the age of ten, Richard moved with his parents and brother from Columbus, Ohio, to Tucson, Arizona, which would become his lifelong home. Richard was a rambunctious and free-spirited child. He loved riding his bike and would disappear for hours looking for adventure. At 19, Richard married his sweetheart, Mary. The day before his 20th birthday, they welcomed their first daughter, Johannah. He always called her “his early birthday present.” Two years later came their twin daughters, Leah and Lisa. In his late teens, Richard was cast into the national spotlight when he went to the authorities and turned in his former friend Charles Schmid. Richard was the star witness, testifying against Schmid at his trials for murdering three teenage girls in Tucson. Schmid was convicted of all three murders. Life magazine published an article nicknaming Schmid “The Pied Piper of Tucson.” Schmid was later killed by fellow inmates in prison. The notoriety that surrounded the Charles Schmid murders made it difficult for Richard to find steady employment due to his connection to the case. He was eventually able to find work at a local flower shop as a delivery driver. Later, he would work at Tucson Blueprint, where he became a skilled printing pressman. As a young man, Richard had a thirst for knowledge. He spent his spare time researching topics of interest, and he was an avid reader. He and his wife, Mary, had a passion for collecting antique toys and dolls, spending many weekends searching for their next great find. In 1982, Richard and Mary divorced. Around that time, Richard returned to school. He attended the University of Arizona and graduated cum laude. He went on to become a dedicated and successful math teacher. In 2018, Richard’s book I, a Squealer was published. He had written the manuscript over 50 years earlier during the Charles Schmid trials. Decades later, his daughters discovered the manuscript and encouraged him to share his side of the story. His book went on to receive glowing reviews. His family will remember Richard for his great mind, his sense of humor, and his passion for sports, antiques, movies, and roller coasters. Although Richard may no longer physically touch their lives, his spirit will continue to live on in their hearts. Richard is survived and deeply missed by his loving daughters Johannah, Leah, and Lisa; his grandchildren Jesse, Jeffry, and Chloe; his great-grandchildren Jesse, Jeffry, and Chloe; his great-granddaughter Ivy; and his brother Roger.