Agnes M. Bruski

Agnes M. "Aggie" Bruski (née Warner), age 91, of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026 in Roseville.

Aggie was born November 17, 1934 in St. Augusta, Minnesota, the youngest of twelve children. She carried the values of that upbringing throughout her life: humility, resilience, thrift, and a steady, practical way of caring for the people she loved.

She attended Saint Andrew’s school through the eighth grade, and later Washington High School, where she was part of the Class of 1953.

Aggie’s spelling was famously creative, something the family laughed about for years. More than once her husband called from the grocery store to ask what exactly was written on the list. Aggie never worried much about getting it right. She knew spelling was not what mattered most in life, and she was very good at the things that did.

At the center of Aggie’s life was her beloved husband, Robert “Bob.” Their marriage of 65 years was a true partnership. They were devoted to one another, united in how they raised their children, and known for the joy they found in each other’s company. Aggie loved to laugh, and Bob loved nothing more than making her laugh. They were the best of friends and true partners in life, sharing music, dancing, and the simple routines of everyday life. It is hard to speak of one without the other.

Dancing was one of Aggie’s great joys, and she taught Bob how. They became lifelong dance partners, rolling up the carpet, pushing back the furniture, and turning on polka music at home. Later they followed their favorite polka bands to dances and festivals with friends.

As a mother, Aggie was steady, organized, and deeply devoted. She made each child feel special, gave her full attention when you spoke, and offered calm support without judgment. She was also clear about expectations, and if you were misbehaving in church, one look was usually enough. Her children unanimously agree she was the “best mom.”

Aggie was reserved and never wanted to be the center of attention. She preferred her familiar people, her routines, and a home that felt well-run. Aggie was polite and gracious, but she also knew what she liked.

Her care showed up in practical ways. She was a wonderful cook and baker who kept traditions going, especially Sunday dinners. There were often cookies, cakes, pies, or coffee cake waiting in the kitchen.. She was also an avid knitter, leaving behind beautiful mittens still used and treasured today.

Aggie loved to read, especially romance and mystery, and she loved Hallmark. A book was rarely far away.

Aggie experienced deep loss in her lifetime, including the deaths of three of her children. Through each loss she carried herself with quiet strength and steady faith. The passing of her beloved Bob changed her world. They had been partners and best friends for more than sixty years. She missed him every day and carried his memory with her always.

In the years that followed, her family continued to grow around her. She took special joy in the babies who came to visit, the great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who filled the house with noise and life. Seeing them was one of her greatest pleasures.

Together, Aggie and Bob built a remarkable family. At large family gatherings, the room could fill with generations of children and grandchildren. At one Christmas celebration, held in a fire hall so everyone could fit, Bob once looked around the crowded room and proudly joked, “All of these people are here because of me.” Aggie quickly replied, “Because of us.” It was a perfect reflection of their life together.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; children, Tom Bruski, Linda Green, and Paul Bruski; grandson, Kristopher and great-granddaughter, Megan Bruski; her parents; and siblings.

She is survived by her children, Pat (Jeff) Dittrich, Mike (Jerri) Bruski, Mary (Mark) Gartrell, Bill (Theresa) Bruski, LeAnn (Leonard) Franco, and Cindy (Mark) Marose; her sister, Irene Pearce; daughters-in-law, Kelly and Denise Bruski; son-in-law, Dave Green; 24 grandchildren; 49 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren, along with many other relatives and friends.

Aggie Bruski did not seek recognition or accolades, nor did she measure her life by titles or accomplishments. The family she built with Bob is her enduring legacy. It lives on in the generations who follow and who carry her strength forward. Together, she and Bob built something that will outlive them both.

Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 AM Wednesday, March 11 at The Church of St. Pius X, 3878 Highland Ave., White Bear Lake. Visitation at the church from 10–11 AM Wednesday. A luncheon will immediately follow the Mass. Private burial at St. John's Cemetery in Little Canada will be held in the future.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.