Michael Edward Brunton, age 64, of Columbus, passed away Jan. 23, 2019 at the OSU Wexner Center, after a brief illness. He was born Sept. 26, 1954 in Akron, Ohio to parents, Wendell Edward and Juanita Lee (Manier) Brunton.
Michael graduated as valedictorian from Jackson High School in 1972, and then graduated from The Ohio State University in 1976 with a degree in English Literature. He was employed at Anthem Life of Columbus for 33 years, where he acquired a “family “of coworkers, with whom he felt very close. During his employment he completed an Analysis Certification Program from the University of Colorado at Denver.
Michael is survived by siblings, brother Wendell L. (Judy) Brunton of Jackson, sister Lyndell “Lyn” (Ronald) Speakman of Jackson, beloved nieces Dena L. (Mike) Stewart of Loris, SC, and Wendy L. Stewart of Jackson and beloved nephew Bryan W. (Charla) Brunton of Ashville, Ohio; great-nieces Brylee and Chloe Brunton; and great-nephew Ryan Stewart. Also surviving are an aunt and uncle as well as several cousins.
He was preceded in death by parents, Wendell E. and Juanita L. (Manier) Brunton of Jackson; paternal grandparents, Guy S. and Elenora Brunton of Jackson; and maternal grandparents, Henry and Irene Floyd of Nashville, TN.
Michael’s greatest loves aside from family and friends included his dogs (all rescues), and his Alumni, the OSU Buckeyes. Michael was a recipient and supporter of Lifeline of Ohio, an organization whose purpose is raising awareness for the need of organ donation, and he adamantly believed in its mission.
Following cremation, memorial services will be held on Feb. 2, 2019 at 12 p.m. with visitation one hour prior. Services will take place at Shaw-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory, 4341 N. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43214. Graveside services will be Feb. 2, 2019 at 4 p.m. at Fairmont Cemetery, 12 Fairmont St., Jackson, Ohio 45640.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in memory of Michael Brunton to the OSU Transplant Center at the following link: wexnermedical.osu.edu/ways-to-give