John M. Brumit

Born into a Marine Corps family, John M. Brumit enjoyed living in Cyprus, England, Greece and what was then West Germany, traveling to other countries too, exploring historical sites, etc., as a fun travel companion and avid reader.

After a life-altering accident while a university student that required years of recovery to regain speech and other functional skills, John valiantly worked to not just build a life of independence but thrive, marrying, having a son, and fulfilling his aim of a twenty-year-long federal government agency career.  In that job, he was particularly proud to actively support programs focused on advocating for those with disabilities and Native Americans, visiting tribal culture events and reservations, especially in the Southwest deserts he loved best, when watching coyotes.

Tellingly, when medically evacuated from Greece, fellow students shared stories of his remarkable kind-heartedness unknown to his family.  Even while recovering from his own accident, John enjoyed helping others facing similar challenges.

Asked recently what he considered his greatest achievement in life, John said straightaway, his son, Edward.

When asked what they cherished most about John, family members and friends said his unfailing, lifelong compassion for others and engaging personality.