(Karl) Fred Bruckmeier

Published 11:24 am Wednesday, June 18, 2025

(Karl) Fred Bruckmeier

(Karl) Fred Bruckmeier passed away peacefully on May 29th, 2025, with loved ones by his side. Born on April 10, 1931, in Aufhausen, Southern Germany, Bavaria, Fred was the beloved son of Johann and Sophie Bruckmeier. He was preceded in death by his wife Helen “Cleo” Bruckmeier, his parents, brothers Willie, Johann (Emma), Karl – who all resided in Germany, and stepson Christopher Charron.

Fred is survived by his children: son Mark (Kristen) Bruckmeier, and daughter Kay Bruckmeier of Greeley, Colorado; stepsons, Michael (Lori) Charron of Winona, Minnesota and Timothy Charron of Glenville, MN; his daughter-in-law, Jan Charron (Christopher) of Carlisle, Iowa. He was also a proud grandfather to Kelsey Charron, Julia Charron, Jenna (Jon) Hill, Kacey (Justin) Flaws, Taylor Charron, Danny (Lani) Charron, and Samantha Charron, as well as a great-grandfather of seven.

A dedicated craftsman from a young age, Fred attended country school and completed three years of vocational training in Germany to become a cabinet maker. In 1951, he emigrated to Canada, where he lived until 1956, before settling in the United States. Fred achieved U.S. citizenship in 1961 – a year also marked by his earning a private pilot’s license. That same year, he joined the Civil Air Patrol, a branch of the U.S. Air Force, remaining active until 1990. Fred’s passion for craftsmanship led him to start Bruckmeier Cabinet Shop, where he was recognized as a Master Craftsman.

Fred and his beloved wife, Cleo, shared a zest for travel, exploring destinations like Germany, Alaska, and the Panama Canal, as well as many midwestern festivals and celebrations. He stayed in contact and remained close with his family and friends in Germany throughout his life. His faith and community involvement were deeply important to him; he was an active member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, contributing as Building Chairman beginning in 1982. Using his remarkable skills, he created numerous woodworking projects throughout the church – including the altar, lectern, pulpit, baptismal font, and an extraordinary centerpiece cross. He also crafted the wooden cross that is located in the chapel at St. Mark’s Lutheran Home in Austin, Minnesota.

Known for his impeccable craftsmanship, friendly nature, and innovative solutions in carpentry, Fred left a lasting legacy in the Austin community. His beautiful woodwork adorns many homes and businesses, a testament to his talent, work ethic, and generosity. Fred’s life was a testament to love, skill, and service – qualities he shared generously with everyone around him.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, June 24^th at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church with the Reverend Dean Gunn officiating. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery.

Clasen-Jordan Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.