Submitted by: Dan Rich

South Bend Tribune 9/28/2004

Laurence J. Van Bruaene

Sept. 15, 1926 -- Sept. 26, 2004

Laurence Van Bruaene, 78, passed away peacefully Sunday afternoon, Sept. 26, after a lengthy illness. Laurence's life revolved around his family, God, sports and Mishawaka.

Born at home to Camiel and Serena Van Bruaene, Laurence grew up a Mishawaka boy. Like most boys, he idolized his older brother George, who preceded him in death, and loved showing his younger brother Clarence the ropes. His boyhood was filled with endless opportunities for a game of football or stickball in the street with friends. On Sundays he faithfully attended Mass at Saint Bavo's, and served proudly as an altar boy. Laurence was a varsity letter winner at Mishawaka High School where he met the love of his life, Phyllis Booher. He remained a loyal Caveman to the end as he continued to attend whenever possible all the Mishawaka Alumni meetings.

After graduating from high school, Laurence served in the Air Force during World War II in the Pacific theater. He returned home after the war and married Phyllis on June 27, 1947. After marrying Phyllis, Laurence attended the First Christian Church where he faithfully sang in the choir and held the position of deacon in the church.

Sports remained a large part of his life to the end. Laurence never turned down an opportunity to play a sport. He was a member of the Pop Frankel baseball team in South Bend, as well as playing fast-pitch softball on numerous teams. At 50, Laurence was still playing fast-pitch softball for the BK Club with his son-in-law. Throughout his life he enjoyed his time with Phyllis and friends playing golf at Eberhardt. Age was no barrier for one who loved sports. Laurence participated in volleyball and softball at Battell Center until he was 70. In his free time he took painting classes, as well as guitar and piano lessons.

He became the proud father of two children. His memory will be honored in the days ahead by his wife, Phyllis, his son, Steven, and his wife, Donna, his daughter, Sheila, and her husband, Robert Payton. His legacy includes four grandchildren, Alicia Van Bruaene, Jared Van Bruaene and his wife, Amber, Tim Payton and his wife, Sherri, and Paul Payton and his wife, Kimberly. He also is the proud great-grandfather to Shelby and Lindsey Van Bruaene, Graham, twins Hope and Grace Payton, and a set of twins who will be born at Thanksgiving to Paul and Kimberly.

He will be missed. Friends may come and remember Laurence with his family today, Sept. 28, in the Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W. Eighth St. in Mishawaka between 3 and 8 p.m. Services for Laurence will be held Wednesday at 11 a.m. in First Christian Church, 2511 E. Third St., Mishawaka, with the Rev. Dr. M. Greg Timmons officiating. Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery in Mishawaka.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Joseph County, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, IN 46637; or to First Christian Church of Mishawaka.