"It's a magical world, Hobbes, ol' buddy… Let's go exploring!"

Thomas Brueningsen (Tom), 74, of Bethlehem, passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025.  He was born in Bethlehem to Jacqueline (née Shiffert) and Eugene Brueningsen. He was a graduate of Liberty High School and Lehigh University and went on to work at the Bethlehem Steel until its closure. He then served as the sexton of Saint Matthew's Lutheran Church and managed housekeeping services at the Northampton County Courthouse and Gracedale Nursing Home until his retirement in 2014. He and his wife Barbara enjoyed trips to Promised Land in the Poconos. Tom never met a stranger and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him for his humor and generosity.

Tom is survived by wife Barbara Brueningsen, brother Christopher (Megan), daughters Jessica Sinsky (Greg) and Kate Pitts (John), stepchildren Stacy Adams, Brian Adams, Bill Adams and Cindy Adams and his beloved grandchildren Ava Sinsky, Lila Sinsky, and Jamie Pitts. He was preceded in death by wife, Paula (née Kuklentz), parents Jacqueline and Eugene Brueningsen, and his cherished dog Oreo.

Services will be Friday, October 10, at 12:30 PM at Pearson Funeral Home, 1901 Linden St, Bethlehem, PA 18017.  A calling hour from 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM will precede the service.

Donations may be made in Tom's honor to Angels of the Streets senior pet rescue: https://www.angelsofthestreets.org/donate