Ross 'Buddy' Brunetti
February 13, 1933 - March 3, 2021
“World Traveler”
Ross “Buddy” Brunetti died peacefully at his home on March 3, 2021. He was born on February 13,1933 in Bingham Canyon, Utah to Tony and Mary Brunetti, and was the middle of 5 children growing up in Bingham Canyon and later Midvale, Utah. He graduated from Jordan High School in 1952.
Ross was the best damn mechanic in the world who could fix or build anything. He was a combat veteran in Korea serving in the US Army. His black ’55 Chevy Bel Air was his pride and joy which proved irresistible to a beautiful Holy Cross Hospital student nurse from Price, Utah. Ross worked for General Electric as Manager of Service World-Wide for the Off-Highway Motorized Wheel Division. He literally traveled the world and had the stories and pictures to prove it. We could always find him surrounded by friends and family listening to the amazing stories about his adventures.
Although he lost much of his hearing in the war, he never lost his zest for a good story, a glass of fine scotch, or a piece of our mother’s pie. He could grow anything and planted roses for his wife that bloomed long before and well after they should. He provided his unduplicated basil to most of the Italian restaurants and delis in town and was a fine chef himself. His Italian sausage sandwiches were the toast of the Utah Utes Football tailgaters.
Buddy’s love for gardening was surpassed only by his love for his wife, children and three beautiful grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his amazing, loving and selflessly devoted wife of 52 years Connie (Fratto) Brunetti. He is survived by his son Dr. Ross (Andrea) Brunetti; daughter Alicia Dias; grandchildren Ross D. Brunetti, Mark Brunetti, and J Dias.
There was not a life that he touched that was not forever changed for the better. A man of deep faith he was, a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem and attended St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. He and mom sacrificed to send their children to St. Vincent’s School and Judge Memorial High School. Later in life they retired to the dream home he designed and built for mom near Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Unfortunately, due to the current pandemic condition of our world there will be a private mass and interment to follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. When we can hug and kiss like true Italians we will have a celebration of Buddy’s life.
Buddy's mass and burial will be livestreamed for those who wish to join virtually. Please return to this site on Tuesday, March 9th and click the “Watch Service” button above. Recitation of the Rosary will begin at 10:30 AM. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00. Committal will follow. The service will remain on this website for all to watch on demand thereafter.
Memorial donations may be made in our father’s name to Judge Memorial Catholic High School.
Please check back soon for tribute slideshow.
In Loving Memory
Two of my favorite memories of Uncle Ross involve food of course! Eating Basque food in Elko with Aunt Connie and Pasta and beer at hoppers with Jay... To food, family and love Uncle Ross. Say hello to everyone. See you soon
My sincere condolences on the departure of our beloved friend, lovely husband and devout man. Now he is reunited with his “little bride” in paradise. Love and prayers to the entire family.
I will always remember Uncle Ross the jokester. Always lovingly teasing me with a smile on his face. I am so glad to have had special one on one time with him in recent years hearing stories from growing up in Bingham Canyon and Midvale. Oh what a reunion he is having with the love of his life and family. Much love to Ross Jr and Alicia.
Ross and Alicia, I just wanted to send my condolences on the loss of your dad. I remember him well from the ol St. Vincent days. I remember riding the bus with both of you and the drop off at your house not far from ours. And I remember that my parents were so excited to get some of the seeds from his Roma tomatoes. I don't know how so much time has passed since we all graduated and moved forward in life. All my love and from my family (The whole Kirts family) Liz
65 years ago, Ross, we all met at the Fairgrounds to watch Uncle Joe and your brother, Guy, wrestle; think that was the night you met Sissy. Lots of memories and good times since; give her our love when you see her, later.
Our fond memories of Connie and Ross include their love and devotion to their family. We are sorry for your loss. Fondly, Patty and Frank Pignanelli
Ross, sorry to hear about your loss. Even when it is expected it leaves a void that is hard to fill. Theirs was a great generation and hopefully we can pass some of what they taught us to others. Let me know if I can help with anything. Ciao, Jamie
The wisest thing Uncle Ross ever did was to send me over to get a pretty girl’s name at the wrestling matches some 65+ years ago. The dye was cast at that moment because that pretty girl had me sit with her until Uncle Ross had to come and get me. Score one for wiser Aunt Connie. Kris and I and our entire family, that now numbers 25 loving souls, will really miss you Uncle Ross and dearly love you. Dr Ross, Alicia and your families our love and prayers are with you forever.
Doc, sorry to hear about your Dad. Not hard to see where you got your drive, personality, and motivation. Would have loved to hear some of your dad’s stories over a Scotch or two.
Peace be with you all!!! Sorry for how you will miss him, may memories bring you comfort of this wonderful life well lived!
Alicia and Rossi, I am deeply saddened at the passing of Uncle Ross; even though life has separated us the past few years, he and Aunt Sissy were always a constant presence in my life and heart. I'm sorry for your loss, he was a wonderful, kind man. I was at his favorite deli in San Francisco last week, it made me smile as I thought of his stories of the place and of his friend, the owner. He always had a story, and a friend wherever he went. All my best, -Hydee & family
We are so sorry about losing Ross. I am still missing Connie as well. Our friendship goes all the way back to our college years and had great memories of those days. Our heartfelt sympathies, Jack and Patsy
Dear Brunetti Family, We are sorry to learn of your father and grandfather’s passing. May you find solace in knowing Buddy is free of pain, free of sorrows, and is living peacefully and eternally with God. May God console you in your grief. Remember the good times! With sincere sympathy and prayers. Michele & Otto Stuart
Oh heavens, Ross and Alecia, just found this. What a legacy. Blessings to you both and to the extended family. I am deeply saddened, and yes, I too still miss Connie. Such fond memories of you all and the kind look on the photo here of Ross Sr. just warms my heart. I remember the jokes, the stories, skiing, our dads palling around and mom's lunching. What a great family and yes, he lived a very full life. Love you much, and may your hearts be at peace, may your prayers be answered, and we are sending you hugs and sympathy. I will say a rosary for Ross and Connie this week. Love Peyton and Paula
In Loving Memory
