Marino "Mario" John Bruni

Marino “Mario” John Bruni was born on November 15, 1939, in Chicago Heights, Illinois to Mary Bruni (neé Falcioni) and Guido Bruni. He was raised in Calumet City, Illinois with two sisters, Jean Bruni and Drucilla Rangel (neé Bruni).

Marino grew up living between his family’s grocery store and hotel in Italy. When he finished high school, he attended the University of Illinois and then the American School of Cosmetology. After completing school, he met his future wife, Adrienne Todd, while styling her hair for her Senior Prom.

Marino joined the U.S. Army and served as a cook to the officers and his fellow troops. 

In 1963, he married Adrienne, and on their honeymoon, they travelled to Boulder, Colorado, when it was still a small country town. They loved the area so much that they decided to move there in 1965. There, they raised two children, Ariél and Charles. In addition, they opened his first salon, La Mantia, which he later renamed Spectra Hair Design. Marino retired in 2000.

In 1997, Marino entered the Palisade Wine amateur competition, and won three awards, including Best in Show. This event confirmed his decision to become a vintner and vineyard owner. He studied at University of California-Davis, where he completed his viticulture degree. He and Adrienne then moved to Orchard City, Colorado, where they built and established Gran Sasso Vigna, his dream vineyard and winery. There they started an amateur wine making club, which continued until 2023.

Marino lived a rich life with Adrienne. They were able to travel, eat, cook, and surround themselves with friends and family. They were able to spend 61 wonderful years together.

Marino was preceded in death by his father, mother, and oldest sister, Jean. He is survived by his younger sister, Drucilla (spouse Fred), his loving wife, daughter, son (spouse Brenda), grandson, and two great great grandsons, whom he adored. Marino also has many cousins, nieces, and nephews, along with countless friends who are considered family. He was a father, a teacher, and a best friend. He never met a stranger. 

Contributions in his name may be made to Surface Creek Animal Shelter (www.surfacecreekanimalshelter.org/donate) in Cedaredge, Colorado, or Hope West Hospice (www.hopewestco.org/donate/) in Delta, Colorado.