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James "Jim" Guy Bruhn, 68, passed away at Atrium Medical Center on August 18, 2026. He was born on July 3, 1958, in Illinois.
James leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and music. He is survived by his beloved wife of 25 years, Rita Flickinger Bruhn; a son, Arthur James Bruhn "AJ" and wife Rachel Lee; stepson Matthew Malta and wife Katy; and stepson Todd Malta and wife Candace. His adored grandchildren, who lovingly called him "GrampaJim," Brie, Luke, Quinn, and Owen Malta, will forever cherish their memories with him.
James family was the center of his world. He is also survived by his siblings, David Bruhn, Lenore Bruhn Murphy and her late husband Kevin, Maribeth Bruhn Pieniazek and husband Terry, Jeanette Bruhn Kropp and husband Randy, Jeffrey Bruhn, and Gunner Bruhn and fiancé Aretha Hoyt. His cat, "Graymond”, will miss his caring presence while sitting in his lap. James's nieces and nephews, including Joshua Kropp and wife Allison, Matthew Kropp and wife Catherine, Kiel Kropp, Maddie Murphy, Sean Murphy, and Meghan Murphy, held a special place in his heart.
Preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Janet Bruhn, James carried forth their legacy of warmth and kindness. He built his career as a document imaging specialist, most recently employed by Iron Mountain where he made lasting contributions and friendships.
A man of many passions, James was a music enthusiast with a particular fondness for Taylor Swift, introduced to him by his grandchildren. Occasionally you would find him reciting lyrics from his old collection of vinyl's that he treasured. He was a die-hard fan of Chicago Blackhawks hockey; he also played and refereed Hockey when he lived in the Chicago area. He embraced every opportunity for silliness, humor, and spirited horseplay with those he loved.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held in his honor on Friday, September 4, 2026, at 3:00 pm at Woodlawn Funeral Home Chapel. James's family invites friends and loved ones to join as they pay tribute to a life well-lived and deeply treasured.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James's memory to Gaston County Animal Care and Enforcement, an organization he ardently supported. Please visit [here](https://www.gastongov.com/497/Animal-Care-Enforcement) for more information.
Arrangements are being handled with care by Woodlawn Funeral Home. James Guy Bruhn will be profoundly missed, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A future Celebration of Life will be held in Chicago, Illinois in the Fall.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James "Jim" Guy Bruhn, please visit our floral store.
Gaston County Animal Care & Enforcement (GCACE)
922 Leisure Lane, Dallas NC 28034