Gary H. Brusso, 79, a resident of Laurium passed away at the Houghton County Medical Care Facility where he was a resident/patient for the past year.
He was born December 20, 1935 in Laurium, a son of the late Dominic (Tom) and Lucille (Krug) Brusso.
He was a graduate of Calumet High School in the class of 1954. After graduation he served two years with the U.S. Army.
On June 29, 1957 an automobile accident left him a quadriplegic, but Gary never let that define who he was. He never let his physical limitations stop him. He attended Soumi College and Michigan Technological University at a time before handicapped accessible was the norm, breaking ground for others with disabilities. He graduated from Michigan Tech with an accounting degree, receiving the Sisu Award. After graduation, he worked as a traveling field agent for the IRS for 20 years, receiving the Handicapped Federal Employee of the Year Award. While working for the IRS, he lived independently in Detroit and Escanaba.
On September 25, 1962 he married the former Nancy Liikala. They shared a love of animals, adopting many dogs, cats and even a horse. Nancy preceded him in death in 2010.
Besides his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a niece, two nephews and a great nephew.
Gary is survived by
His Sister: Loretta Finley of Laurium
Brothers: Dallas (Vi) Brusso of Ontonagon and Donald (Norma) Brusso of Laurium
Nieces and Nephews: Scott (Ronnie) Finley, Lori Nordmark, Gary Finley, Jill Valero (Scott Patrick), Janice Brusso, Arten (Manuel), Jim (Kathleen) Brusso and Terri (Paul) Teasley
15 Great Nieces and Nephews
13 Great Great Nieces and Nephews
Gary’s family would like to thank the staff at the Houghton County Medical Care Facility and his home health care aides Christopher, Jolene and Chrystal for their loving and compassionate care.
We will miss his wit, strength and easy smile. His courage has always been an inspiration.
Friends may leave condolences at www.ericksoncrowleypeterson.com. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday August 12, 2015 at 2:00 pm in Lake View Cemeter with Pastor James Fundum to officiate.
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