Linda Bruner
Linda (Cook) Bruner, 76, of Watford City, N.D., peacefully passed away on April 5, 2025, after facing cancer with strength, grace, and more grit than most. She was at home - just where she wanted to be - surrounded by love.
Born Dec. 13, 1948, in Lovell, Wyo., Linda was the second of five children welcomed by Loa (Bassett) Cook and James Arnold Cook. She spent her early years in Wyoming, where she welcomed four children before planting new roots in North Dakota.
On July 5, 1995, Linda married Glenn Bruner, and together they built a life full of laughter, loyalty, and love. Over their 30 years of marriage, they raised children (both two- and four-legged), nurtured gardens, and built a home that remains the heart of their family.
Linda held a degree in accounting and retired as an internal revenue auditor for a casino. Linda was meticulous, sharp, and probably a few steps ahead of everyone else in the room.
She loved anything that grew - gardens bursting with color, trees she planted with care, and a thriving collection of succulents. She was an excellent cook; her homemade meals were always looked forward to. She was also an avid Harley Davidson rider and a road trip companion with an adventurous soul. She hunted with Glenn, fished with her kids, and brought creative beauty to everything she touched - whether it was etched glass, crocheted gifts, or painted works of art.
Linda had a generous heart and a deep, intuitive kindness. She always seemed to know what someone needed - even if they didn’t. She noticed the quiet things, the little feelings, the unspoken needs. Compliment something once, and she’d have it wrapped up for you in no time. Her empathy ran deep, and her attention to detail made everyone around her feel seen. While her empathy ran deep, her sass was equally impressive; like her striking auburn hair, Linda had a spark. She could deliver an “I told you so” with a smile that lit up a room.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Loa; her children, J.P. and Amy; her grandson, Aaron; her brother, Mike; and her nieces, Jaycee and Christina. We take comfort in imagining their joyful reunion.
Linda is survived by her husband, Glenn; her children, Jamison (Heather) Hardin and Josh Hardin; stepchildren, Lacey (David) Zurn, Michael (Shelby) Bruner, and Andrew (Ashley) Bruner; her brothers, Kelly (Angie) Cook, Lance Cook, and Joe Cook; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a great-great-granddaughter on the way, who will surely inherit Linda’s warmth and spark.
Linda’s life was full of love, humor, and a quiet strength that left a lasting mark on everyone lucky enough to know her. She will be deeply missed - and fondly remembered with a smile.