Brian Eugene Brutcher

Santa Ana, CA - Brian Eugene Brutcher, 67, of Santa Ana, CA, formerly of Princeton, IL, passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones and memories of a life well lived, on July 30, 2025 in Vitas Hospice House of Orange County in Santa Ana, CA.

He was born May 15, 1958, in Princeton to Robert L. and Mary Christine (Bickett) Brutcher. He attended Princeton schools, graduating from Princeton High School in 1976, where he was active in football, wrestling, track, choir, class officer, and "the smart people" at PHS. After graduating he attended the University of Illinois, earning a bachelor's degree in Medical Engineering. He accepted a job in Irvine, CA, where he engineered medical devices for 30 years. He attended Pepperdine University, earning his master's degree. He met his wife, Bonnie, converting to Catholicism before marrying. They had two sons, Nathan and Aaron.

He is survived by his wife, sons, and a granddaughter, Charli. He is also survived by brothers Frank Brutcher of Princeton, David (Enid) Brutcher of Altamonte Springs, FL; sisters Marianna (Kelly) Barkley of Princeton, Janet (Rob) Hufffstadt of Valparaiso, IN; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, friends, and 2 aunts.

He was preceded in death by paternal and maternal grandparents; his parents Robert and Mary Christine (Bickett) Brutcher; brothers Robert, Richard, Bruce; aunts and uncles.

Brian enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, collecting antiques, and was often heard saying "Go Bears." He loved working the yard and tinkering on old vehicles. Those who knew Brian will remember him for his big and caring heart, his strong will, his witty humor, and his willingness to help those in a time of need. Brian was always making friends in life and willing to share a life story or sage wisdom to anyone that lent an ear. He enjoyed writing poetry.

Arrangements are made by Saddleback Chapel in Tustin, CA, where cremation rites were accorded. Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments is assisting the family locally.

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments.

Service 12:00 at Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments. Officiated by Deacon John Murphy. Followed by graveside services at Oakland Cemetery in Princeton, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Princeton High School Sportman's Club: 216 S. Church St., Princeton, IL 61356

Online condolences may be directed to www.norbergfh.com

Arrangements by Norberg Memorial Home, Inc. & Monuments.