Frank Bruning
Family: Wife: Mary
Children: Fred, Jane
Background:
Other than years spent serving in the US Marines or on campus at the University of Nebraska, Frank Bruning has spent his entire life in Bruning, Nebraska. He was born on April 21, 1926. He attended school in Bruning, graduating from high school in 1943. Following high school, he studied at the University of Nebraska for one semester, and then in fall of 1943, he enlisted in the Marines and served in Guam for 14 months. Upon discharge, Frank returned to the University of Nebraska and majored in Animal Science. In 1949 he received a bachelor's degree in agriculture. While at the university, he was instrumental in forming the Rodeo Club, was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, and was active in numerous other activities.
Frank married Mary Reiss. They started a registered Hereford herd in 1950, and in 1975 with son Fred, they added registered Angus cattle to their operation. Recently, they have added a five-breed composite herd of cattle. In their operation, they have both spring and fall calving seasons. All cows are maintained near Bruning and Fairbury and are fed feedstuffs produced in their farming operation. Other cattle are also purchased for grazing and fed for slaughter. Innovative grazing practices have been incorporated into a total life-cycle management program.
In 1961, Frank and Mary created a unique business, Feedlot Fencing, Inc. that grew out of innovative use of oilfield pipe and rods. This successful venture provides steel rods and pipe, along with gates and panels that Feedlot Fencing manufactures, for feedlots, ranches, dairies, buffalo and horse operations across much of the Midwest. Mary and Penni (Fred's wife) handle most of the fencing business management.
In 1891, Frank's grandfather started Bruning State Bank, which was originally called the German Bank. Frank became President of the bank in 1965 and then Chair of the board in 1987. The Bruning family remains the major holders. Fred, who is the fourth generation, is also active in the bank. The central mission of Bruning State Bank has always been promotion and support for agriculture and rural communities. During Frank's tenure with the bank, it has grown from $3 million to almost $90 million in assets. He has also been a central leader in the Bruning Community Foundation and is active in the Grassland Council.
Throughout Frank's life, he has been a creator of educational opportunities for both Ayoung and old. He helped create the Farmers and Ranchers College, an annual event supported by area agribusinesses and University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension. He has also been a supporter of area 4-H and local school activities. Frank Bruning will continue to make lasting, positive impressions on youth and our leaders for tomorrow.
1926-2020