Kathleen Lee Bruner

Kathleen Lee (Busch) Bruner, 78, passed away on April 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Known to many as “Mama Kathy,” she was silly, kind, caring, and endlessly giving. She loved deeply and lived her life devoted to her family and friends.

Kathleen had a passion for music and loved to sing and play the piano. She had a special gift for making even the simplest days feel magical and fun, filling everyday moments with warmth, laughter, and love. She never knew a stranger and believed her home should always be an open door—a safe place filled with kindness, comfort, and plenty of food for all of her children’s friends and anyone in need.

She is survived by her children: Becky Lopez (Walter) of California, Chris Bruner of Winter Haven, Kirsten Curling (Mike) of Winter Haven, and Brad Bruner (Susie) of Chiefland; and her bonus daughter, Angie Jaeger (Mike) of California. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Katie Lopez of California, Emily Nguyen (Dennis) of California, and Blayne Bruner of Winter Haven; and her great-grandchildren: Jayden, Genisis, and Skye.

Kathleen is also survived by her brothers, Don Busch (Linda) and Dave Arnesen, along with many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Bruner, and her parents, Frank and Martha Busch.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that the love she gave so freely will live on in each of us. The world feels a little less bright without her laughter, but heaven gained a beautiful soul. We will carry her with us—in our hearts, in our memories, and in the love we share—until the day we are together again.