Gary Michael Bruttell

Gary Michael Bruttell, age 76 of St. Clair Shores, MI, passed away peacefully at home on August 21, 2026, at 10:23 AM with his devoted wife Marsha by his side. Gary had a warm and welcoming personality, which left a lasting impression on everyone whose path he crossed.

Gary was born on April 23, 1950, in East Detroit to Robert and Gertrude Bruttell, the second of seven children. Gary had fond memories of his childhood, especially his time spent at St. Veronica's in East Detroit, where he was a star baseball player.

Gary enlisted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War in 1969, where he proudly served as a medic in San Antonio, Texas, at Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston.

After leaving the Army in 1972, Gary continued to lead a full and fascinating life. He worked as a fashion model for many years and could be seen in newspapers, magazines, and local ads. After modeling, Gary established Gary Bruttell Roofing. He loved being an entrepreneur, marching to the beat of his own drum and encouraging others to challenge conventional thinking and to forge their own path. He successfully led Gary Bruttell Roofing for 23 years before eventually selling the business, continuing to work in the industry prior to his retirement in 2023.

Gary had many passions, most notably athletics. From a young age and throughout his life, he was an avid fisherman and golfer, and he played baseball, hockey and basketball. His competitive nature was well known, and he was a fierce competitor whenever sports were involved. When he wasn't on a roof somewhere throughout Metro Detroit, he could often be found jigging for walleye on the Detroit River or fishing the shores of Siesta Key Beach.

Gary was also known for his love of photography. His home was filled with photographs of family and friends, documenting the people, places, and experiences that made up his life and travels. Although he enjoyed traveling, his greatest pleasures were often the simplest: tomatoes from his garden, beautiful flowers in his yard, or his favorite home-cooked meals made by Marsha.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Alfred Watson. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Marsha; his children, Adam (Diana) Bruttell, Warren Bruttell, Erin Bruttell, Devlynn Bruttell (Alex Rueda), and Alexa Bruttell; his "Bonus Daughter," Jill (Jeff) Cantwell; and his beloved grandchildren, Sebastian, Kaeden, Ebenezer, Dino, Telly, Aayla, and Gabriel; as well as an expected grandson, due this fall. Gary is also survived by his siblings, Robert Bruttell, Jack Bruttell, Ann Bruttell, Tom Bruttell, Ron Bruttell, and Mary Watson.

Family and friends alike will forever cherish Gary's thoughtfulness, unique perspectives, and his endearing, heartfelt cards, photographs, and messages. These special reminders of Gary will continue to bring comfort to those who loved him in the days and years ahead.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson's or Pound Pals Downriver

Private Committal of Cremated Remains to be held on Monday, September 7th at 9am at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan with Military Honors rendered by the US Army.