Robert Brunkow

Robert "RJ" Brunkow, age 59 of Darlington, WI passed away Thursday, September 16, 2021 at UnityPoint Health - Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA. He was born September 26, 1961 at Memorial Hospital of Lafayette County in Darlington the son of Robert C. and Dolores (Olson) Brunkow. RJ grew up in Darlington and gradated from Darlington High School. He spent his entire life living in the Darlington area and worked in information services at Lands End in Dodgeville, WI and at Prudential Financial for many years. RJ is survived by his two sons: Bo Brunkow of Hazel Green, WI and Tyler (Bailey Dolphin) Brunkow of Mineral Point, WI; his two grandchildren that be absolutely adored: Treyson and Brookstyn; two sisters: Jane Brunkow of Belmont, WI and Susan (Randy) Windle of Circle Pines, MN; his nieces: Tasha (Pat Boyle) Gallagher, Brooke (Mark) Arntzen, and Robyn (Geoff Griep) Osterhues, and many great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother: Terry Brunkow; a sister: Linda Blaser; a niece: Dulcey Blaser; and a nephew: Adam Blaser. RJ was a very active member of the Darlington coaching youth football and wrestling. He also served on the Darlington School Board, Darlington City Council, was a Hodan Center board member, and was a member of the Touchdown Club. He was an avid sports fan and always cheered on his Wisconsin teams - the Brewers, Packers, Bucks, Badgers, and of course the Darlington Redbirds. He enjoyed playing baseball and softball in his younger years and always took great pride in coaching and teaching young kids about sports. He liked to read - especially Stephen King books and was a big history buff. He had a unique sense of humor and always joked around with the best of them. RJ's pride and joy was his family. He cherished the time he spent with them creating memories they will cherish forever. He made sure that his boys and his grandchildren knew how proud he was of them every chance he got. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 11:00 A.M. at Grace Lutheran Church (1302 Clay St., Darlington) with Rev. Kate Kieckhafer officiating. A visitation will be held Monday, September 20, 2021 from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Erickson Funeral Home (508 Main St., Darlington). A burial will be held in Union Grove Cemetery at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has established in RJ's name.