Richard Joseph “Rich” Bruening, 84, of Newcastle, Nebraska, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving children.

A Celebration of Rich’s life will be held at 2:30 P.M. Friday, September 18, 2026, at Restoration Church, formerly Morningside Assembly of God, 4310 Old Lakeport Road, Sioux City, Iowa 51106.

Rich was born on January 8, 1942, the oldest of four sons born to Wilbur and Carole (Hausmann) Bruening. He was raised on a farm in Carroll County, where the values of faith, family, and hard work became an important part of the man he would become. He attended high school and college at the Catholic Seminary in Elkhorn, Nebraska.

On August 14, 1965, Rich married Rita Jean Rosener in Vail, Iowa, beginning a life together that would be filled with many treasured memories. The couple made their home in Mapleton, Iowa, for 15 years, where Rich farmed and together they raised their growing family of six children. In 1980, Rich and Rita fulfilled a longtime dream when they purchased a farm of their own and moved their family to Newcastle, Nebraska. The following year, their family was completed with the birth of their seventh child.

Rich found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing, spending time on the boat, and watching the birds, especially hummingbirds. He had an artistic side, along with beautiful handwriting that those who knew him will fondly remember. Rich never minded a good visit and enjoyed conversations with neighbors, friends, and anyone who happened to stop by.

Above all, Rich cherished his family. He enjoyed the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren - and even occasionally enjoyed spending time with his own children!! His sense of humor, stories, and presence will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Rich was also proud of the many times he was able to help others through blood donation, something that held special meaning to him. His faith remained an important part of his life, and he and Rita were active and devoted members of Restoration Church for many years.

Left to cherish his memory are his four daughters, Dawn (Ron) Boutch of Harrisburg, South Dakota, Gina (Terry) Taschuk of Elko, Minnesota, Deb (Jason) Obester of Hollister, Missouri, and Cindy (Derek) Gale of Newcastle, Nebraska; three sons, Steven Bruening of Newcastle, Dennis (Heather) Bruening of Newcastle, and Nathan (Jackie) Bruening of Newcastle; 17 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; three brothers, John (Nancy) Bruening, Jerry (Mary) Bruening, and Joe (Olga) Bruening; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Carole Bruening, and his beloved wife, Rita.