Rodney Craig Brunsell
09/14/1945 - 12/26/2010
Share
Obituary For Rodney Craig Brunsell
Rodney Craig Brunsell 65, of Hanson died on December 26, 2010 at his home surrounded by his family and close friends. Mr. Brunsell had a lung transplant on November 4, 2008, shortly thereafter he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He was born in Boston, son of the late George and Arlene(Malmberg) Brunsell, and Step-Son of Anne Brunsell of Cambridge. Rodney was raised and educated in Roxbury, and was a graduate of Boston English High School. Following high school Rodney was a student at Suffolk University where he would graduate with a degree in Business Administration. Mr. Brunsell worked as the Director of Regulatory Findings for the Liberty Mutual Insurance Company in Boston. He was a resident of the Town of Hanson since 1973. He was an active member and the Curator of the Hanson Historical Society, a member of the Thomas Mill Preservation Commission, and a Corporator of the Larz Anderson Museum. Rodney was a member of the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association, the Granite City Stamp Club, and was a Life Member of the Bryn Mere Bowling Group. Rodney was the Husband of 40 years to Barbara A. (Barnes) Brunsell of Hanson. Father of, Heather Barnes Brunsell and her boyfriend Brian McGrath of Bridgewater, and Adam Nathaniel Brunsell of Carver. Brother of Bradley Brunsell of Quincy, Elizabeth O’Dea of Scituate, and Barbara Sullivan of Medford. Brother in law of Mark and Nancy Bellerose of Mansfield. He was also the uncle to many nieces and nephews. The Brunsell family welcomes friends and loved ones to celebrate Rodneys’ life on Thursday, December 30, 2010 in the Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home 135 Union St. ROCKLAND from 4:00-7:00 PM. A Funeral Home Service will be held on Friday, December 31, 2010 at 11:00 AM. Donations may be made to the Hanson Historical Society P.O. Box 52, Hanson MA 02341, or to www.caringbridge.com .
Condolences
-
05/25/2021
Bruce & Marjie Young & Family
Our deepest heartfelt sympathies go out to Rodney's Family. He fought the good courageous fight, and kept his dignity and sense of humor throughout this difficult struggle. We will always cherish our memories of Rodney,especially his warmth and his unique dry sense of humor, that was loved by all. The banner of the Hanson Historical Society reads "Preserving our Heritage", and that is what Rodney stood for as the longtime Curator of our Society. He was not only a curator of Hanson and area history, he knew how to preserve it, and passed those suggestions and techniques on to others. His motto to those who were cleaning out an elderly relatives belongings after a death in the family was when in doubt "Don't throw it out, Call the Historical Society". His passion for Historical Preservation and rescuing and finding historical treasures of the past, was only equaled and surpassed by his love and devotion and caring for his Family, and the great times enjoyed with his friends. To Barbara, Heather and Adam, may you be comforted in the days ahead, by all of those fabulous memories of a life well lived, and a husband and father who loved and cared deeply about you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Bruce & Marjie Young & Family
-
05/25/2021
Ron L'Herault
I didn't see you often, but whenever we did meet it was always a great pleasure to talk with you.
-
05/25/2021
Melinda
I knew Rodney through his many visits to Sandy's Coffee Corner where he was a regular. He was a wealth of knowledge and I always enjoyed talking with him. I was fortunate enough to get to know Rodney better through the Hanson Historical Society. I'll never forget one day when he gave us a presentation on his local postcards. He had every single card you could imagine...and a story to go along with each individual card! I learned a lot from Rodney. As sick as he was, he was still attending our meetings and even came to our dinner in November. I'll never forget his courage and strength. He was a great friend to all. We will all miss you very much, Rodney.
-
05/25/2021
Meredith Young Roselli
My deepest sympathies got to Rodney's family. I truly feel that it would have been impossible to know Rodney and not be touched by his kindness,humor and generous spirit. I had the great fortune of seeing him on many occasions through his friendship with my dad; at town events, parades, flea markets and historical society gatherings. He always took the time to say hello and give us something to laugh about with his humorous observances and some of his knowledge of history to share. I will truly miss those times.He was a wonderful man. My sincerest condolences to everyone. God Bless you and keep your memories of him close in your hearts, Merrie
-
05/25/2021
Donna Brown
A true gentleman, who loved his family more than anything. He was always willing to help when needed. I will think of him ofter and miss him. My prayers to Barbara and family.
-
05/25/2021
Jennifer Taylor
Rodney and I worked late many evenings helping my mother to write captions for a pictorial book about Hanson. I remember well how witty and patient he was no matter how tired we all were at those moments. I enjoyed every minute and will remember him with great admiration.
-
05/25/2021
Tonia Evans
To Heather and The Family I remember him when I was a kid on Spring Street and he had the coolest desk and most interesting old signs in your house. It was fun visiting your family when we were kids. I'm sorry so sorry for your loss.
-
05/25/2021
Adam Brunsell
RIP Dad i miss you so much! You were a awesome father i couldn't have asked for a better dad. You made us laugh so much and you were always such a positive guy. I'm going to miss picking up the phone and asking your opinion on antiques i want to buy at a auction or flea market! I will also miss coming over to show you my found treasures. I can't believe all the hearts you have touched in your life! Dad i felt so bad that this happened to a man that SO didn't deserve it!!! Rest in peace until we meet up again! Love You oxoxox
-
05/25/2021
Bob and Ruh Taylor
Rodder: Some 40 years ago you stood by my side as my Best Man. And, for some 20+ years prior, we forged a friendship that lasted through 7 state to state relocations and even a a different country for many years. Little did we know when you sat in front of me in Sunday School each week that in our later years we would bond and share exciting times on Cape Cod, New Hampshire, and especially our home town of West Roxbury. I remember so well our frequent trips to China Gold where you would not share in the wonderful Chinese cuisine but would opt for a cheeseburger followed by a hot fudge sundae with pistachio ice cream, marshmallow and nuts. I remember so well the expression on your face when we completed the sale of 272 Spring Street. I remember our telephone conversations when we both worked the midnight shift - you at the Howard Johnson's Motor Lodge of Boston and I manning the American Airlines ticket counter at Logan. And who could forget those wonderful double dates with you and Barb and Ruth and I. Ruth and I rejoice at your life, the wisdom you have shared, the laughter we remember and the love you have given to us all. Rest easy my good friend for great is your reward. If Rodney Brunsell meets me at God's right hand, then I know I'll find my heaven in Emmanuels's land. In love, Bob and Ruth
-
05/25/2021
Heather Brunsell
Dad, What a ride is right! I don't know another father that was so laid back and carefree but such a positive role model in how you treat others, being honest and most of all loving. Having a father like you is something i will cherish the rest of my life and I will lead by example when I should have a family someday. I miss you so much, the quick calls during the day just to say hi or to see if you wanted to come hang out with me at my new home. Our friends have been so wonderful, as I'm sure there was no doubt in your mind they would be anything else but. Mum is doing great, she knows your tired, what a fight, you make us all so proud. Mike and Norm have been helping as if you were still home, thinking of everything you would want in remembrance. I LOVE YOU DAD and i know you are always with me. ~heath xoxo
-
05/25/2021
Bill Dickerson
Rod also collected paper. In the days before ezpass he would ask me to always use the automatic toll booths. He said after the ticket spits out to wait another 10 seconds and a second would spit out which I should take and send him for his collection. I did this many times. Once I had one in the car and found myself on the Mass pike again a week later. It was often said these stubs were time stamped and if you reached your exit too soon the pike police would ticket you for speeding. Well this one time I mistakenly handed the collector at the exit my week old stub I was saving for Rod. I realized it after I handed it over and held my breath wondering if I would get a ticket for loitering on the pike. Sorry Rod that was one you didn't get. Rest in peace dear friend.
-
05/25/2021
heather mcgrath
Leave a condolence or a memory.
-
05/25/2021
Ralph Hansen
I remember the good times with Rodney and Bradley at Dennsiport with his parents and Bradley and my parents Harry and Gertrude Hansen. Rodney was a fine person whom I enjoyed being with- we shared the Covenant Congegational Church in Forest Hills. My condolences go to his family and brother Bradley. Sincerley, Ralph Hansen
-
05/25/2021
Jennifer English
Several years ago, Tucson welcomed the International License Plate Collector's Convention to our downtown convention center. This important and prestigeous event brough the biggest names in Plate collecting to the "Old Pueblo." Including Rodney. My Uncle Robert and Father Edward English had spent a lifetime hunting for automobile gold. They also trained my well. For weeks the anticipation of the convention and a visit from Rodney and his cohort in plate trading were exciting. I always, ALWAYS learned so uch from Rodney who generously shared his multi-volume encyclopedic knowledge with those deemed worthy through an expression of shared collecting passion. Our mutual "mania: for the treasure hunt turned the convention into a wonderful "master Class" for me. His validating comments on the few small finds I purchased were incredibly valuable to my collecting self and soul. I can not imagine how the void of his loving validation and lessons will impact his children and closest friends. He knew about so many things, had a keen mind and a sharp, unerring eye. He was the perfect treasure hunting mentor. rest in Peace
-
05/25/2021
Ellen Schmidt
Dear Barb, Heather and Adam, Please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of Rodney. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. I shall always remember the twinkle in his eye and his teaing ways. Sincerely your friends, Bob and Ellen
-
05/25/2021
Norm Hatch
My sincerest condolences to the entire Brunsell family. I worked with Rodney at Liberty Mutual from 1995-1999. He was a very dedicated and loyal employee. He was so loved by everyone at Liberty. I remember most his very dry wit that had me in stitches many a day. I also remember his collection of Liberty Mutual memorabilia ,which was the envy of the company historian! Although I had not seen him since his retriement from Liberty, I know he will be missed by everyone.
-
05/25/2021
Meredith Barnes-Cook
I had the privilege of working with Rodney for several years in Boston and the pleasure of chatting with him daily. He could always find the humor in any situation, and had great stories to share from his career experiences at Liberty Mutual. When he retired, I was so touched that he chose to give me some of his prized company logo items - the display at his desk was impressive. My sincerest sympathy to his family and friends - Rodney will be greatly missed.
-
05/25/2021
heather
Dad, You would have been so disappointed by the Pats this past Sunday, no Superbowl but Adam has already started talking about the Sox. That's another thing, what a great team this year, i so wish you were here to watch with us. I know your watching somewhere. Thinking of you all the time and miss you more than you know. Love you dad xoxo
-
05/25/2021
Adam
Happy Fathers Day Dad, miss and love you RIP.
-
05/25/2021
Adam
Happy Fathers Day Dad, miss and love you RIP.
-
05/25/2021
heather
Well we shared father's day and by birthday and i thought of you every minute of the day, and every day. I miss you soooo much dad. love you heath
-
05/25/2021
Heather
Can't beleive it's been a year dad, i miss you SO much every single day. I know you would want us to stay strong and although it's been hard we are doing our best. Miss and love you so much....Heath xoxo
Add a Candle or Spiritual Image
Click below to add to your message.
/candles/candle-blue-unlit.gif)
/candles/candle-green-unlit.gif)
/candles/candle-lavender-unlit.gif)
/candles/candle-orange-unlit.gif)
/candles/candle-pink-unlit.gif)
/candles/candle-red-unlit.gif)
/candles/candle-white-unlit.gif)
/candles/candle-yellow-unlit.gif)
Modal title
Modal body text goes here.
Name and Email Address
To leave a condolence message, add photos, or add videos, please provide your name and email address