William Brusse

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William (Bill) Brusse, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Terre Haute, IN on July 21, 2022. Bill was born on May 26, 1926 in Nashville, TN to the late William and Maxie Brusse. He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Wanda Brusse; brother-in-law Joseph Edward Clark; and niece Courtney Clark Lanier. He is survived by his dear sister, Barbara Brusse Clark; son William Clark (and Josephine Pirrone) Brusse; daughters Elizabeth (and Joseph) Bonin; Gerrie (and Scot) Mardis. Bill left behind one granddaughter and six grandsons, as well as all their spouses; six great-grandsons; and two nephews and their families, all of whom dearly loved their Papa.He served as a radioman and gunner on a Patrol Bomber Mariner in the US Navy during the Second World War. In 1950 he graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a degree in ceramics engineering. He worked in this capacity with the Whirlpool Corporation in Evansville, IN for 20 years, rising to the position of Managing Officer of two manufacturing plants. In 1951 he married the love of his life, Wanda Clark. In the same year, his sister Barbara married Wanda’s brother Jo Clark. The Brusse and Clark children fondly referred to each other as double first cousins.After retiring from Whirlpool, he and Wanda moved to Columbia, TN where they operated a successful custom drapery business, working with interior designers in and around Nashville, TN. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, and he and Wanda were dedicated volunteers at the Maury County Hospital in Columbia. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and camping with friends and family. He was a serious collector of both coins and knives; his collection of pearl-handled knives was described as “pristine.” He treated everyone he met with respect and dignity. Those who had the good fortune of spending time with him quickly became fond of Bill. He was a man easy to admire and appreciate. He will be sorely missed by those who loved him. A private memorial service will be held for immediate family. In lieu of donations, please honor Bill by carrying on his legacy of kindness and compassion.

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