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Herbert J. Bruystens, Jr., age 91, of Mendon, passed away at Three Rivers Health on Friday, November 15, 2024. He was born in Chicago on June 11, 1933 the son of Herbert J. and Johanna (Gerritsen) Bruystens. On June 21, 1952 Herbie married Barbara Granger in LaGrange.
For nearly 20 years, Herbie worked at Roy’s Auto Body, fixing up cars and making sure the paint job was done correctly. Over the years, he was responsible for painting trucks for the Mendon Fire Department, which were done in his personal driveway. He was also a volunteer fireman for Mendon for a brief amount of time. He also worked for his uncle Pete’s heating and cooling business for many years. Herbie was a gentleman who always put everyone else’s needs above his own. Every Sunday, he and his brother would travel around the county making the rounds from house to house and nursing home to nursing home, checking on his friends and helping them any way he could. Herbie was known for his ability to carry a conversation better than anyone. There was never a “short” talk, however, while a discussion was going on, a lot of history was discussed and he truly wanted to know how you were doing and wanted to learn about you. Herbie was known to many as “the candy man”, handing candy out to everyone in sight, 365 days a year. He also knew where all the local dogs were, making sure they received their treats as well. Herbie truly cared about people and his compassion for others will truly be missed.
Herbie is survived by his son Millard Bruystens; two grandsons; Denis (Leann) Bruystens and Phillip (Danielle Mumby) Bruystens; four great grandchildren; Adrienne Sturgill, Chris Dupree, and Abby and Alden Bruystens; his brother Carl “Dutch” (Judy) Bruystens; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his wife Barb; daughter in law Deb Bruystens; and his siblings; Olga Crossman, Frances “Fritz” Bruystens, and Charlie Bruystens.
In keeping with Herbie’s wishes, cremation is being conducted. A visitation will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024 from 2 to 4pm and 6to 8pm at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main Street, Mendon, MI 49072). A private burial will take place at a later date. It is suggested that memorials made in Herbie’s name be made to the Mendon Fire Department. Condolences and memories may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
