Barry Patrick Bruner

Barry P. Bruner, a man whose life was defined by quiet devotion and a profound connection to the natural world, passed away on April 15, 2026, doing what he loved most—fishing. 

Born on April 29, 1967, in Monroe, Louisiana, Barry lived a life steeped in the simple pleasures of family, friendship, and the great outdoors. For the past 17 years, he enjoyed his work at Schickel Construction Company, where he carried an utmost respect and admiration for his boss, Bruno Schickel. Yet, it was beyond the construction site that Barry’s true spirit shone brightest. As a Master Fisherman and an avid outdoorsman, Barry’s love for fishing transcended mere hobby—he was an inspiring teacher who opened the world of fishing to countless others, from children to adults. His dream was as vivid as it was heartfelt: to charter and captain his own fishing boat, creating a life devoted to sharing the joy of fishing and the serenity of the water. Barry found community and kinship among a close-knit group of fishing friends whose bonds he treasured deeply. His affection for Seneca Lake drew him to its shores, where fate led him to meet his wife, Cindy, on the pier in Watkins Glen.  Barry’s life was a testament to the beauty of the simple things—a welcoming home, the laughter of friends, and the quiet moments spent casting lines into tranquil waters.

Barry leaves behind his wife, Cindy Bruner; children Miranda Taylor and Cody (Crystal) Bruner; stepchildren Adam (Kristen) Dobson and Tammy (Wagner) Jean-Francois; grandchildren Mario and Maggie Jaquez, James Bruner, Carlton Prescott, and Alexus Jean-Francois; siblings Kimberly Goodreau and Haywood (Sara) Herriott; several nieces and nephews; and his faithful feline companion, Oliver. He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Fifield; his mother-in-law, Mary (Michael) Lisowski; sister-in-law, Terry LaFever; and brother-in-law, Timothy Doland.

The family will be present to receive friends from 9:00 to 11:00am on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South Street, Trumansburg. A Memorial Service will immediately follow at 11:00am at the funeral home. 

The family asks those that would like to make a contribution in Barry's memory to kindly consider Stay Wild Animal Rescue in Trumansburg.