Mary Katherine “Kay” Bruno, 91, passed away peacefully at home on March 15, 2026,

surrounded by her loving family. Born January 8, 1935, she shared a birthday with her

beloved husband and soulmate of 72 years, Patrick “Pat” Bruno. Together they built a

life centered on love, family, and devotion- Kay put it best when she said “We were put

together for the purpose of loving, harassing, protecting each other, and most

importantly creating the five children who became our legacy. “Kay is survived by her

husband, Pat; her children, Kathi Krakowka, Steven Bruno, Karen Miglorie, and Jennifer

Schofield; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and

her brother, Ed Fortier. She was predeceased by her father, Oscar Fortier; mother, Mary

Fortier; her son, Patrick “Paddy” Bruno; her grandson, Michael Bruno and several

brothers and sisters. Kay had a rare and beautiful gift for making all of her children feel

like they were “the favorite,” a testament to the way she loved so deeply and

individually. That same warmth extended to everyone who knew her. She was a

hardworking and dedicated partner in the family business, The Beer King, where she

was truly the heart behind it all. Despite her tireless work ethic, she cherished her time

to relax — especially her six weeks each year in Florida, where she could be found by

the pool, enjoying the sunshine and maintaining her signature sun-kissed glow. It only

made sense they would retire to sunny Florida, after selling Beer King in 1987. Kay

loved playing Bid 45, cooking for those she loved, and bringing people together. She

was truly the “hostess with the mostess,” always creating a space where everyone felt

like family. Kay lived fully, laughed often, and loved deeply — truly embodying her

motto: Live, Laugh, Love. Even in her final days, Kay’s quick wit, clever humor,

signature grace, sass, and loving spirit never wavered. She will be deeply missed and

forever loved. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, June 13, at 10:30 am, at St.

John the Baptist Catholic Church in Castleton. A Celebration of Life will be held at the

Castleton Legion at 12:30pm.

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