Germaine Susie Bruins

Germaine "Gerry" Susie (Pasko) Bruins was born on May 17, 1932 in
Minneapolis, and spent her early years there and in Blackduck, MN. The
eldest of four, Gerry's life was one of leadership, compassion, and
self-reliance. Her education took her from Blackduck to Edison and
Vocational High Schools, where she learned shorthand and stenography —
skills that would serve her well in the years ahead.
In 1962 Gerry married mechanical engineer Bernard Bruins, and together
they embraced raising their daughter, Janet. Though they parted in 1974,
Gerry's commitment to family never wavered, as she raised her daughter,
and later helped raise her three grandchildren. Gerry's 32-year career
with the City of Minneapolis began at age 18 as a police stenographer,
continued in Public Schools administration, and culminated as a clerk
serving the City Council. Beyond the office, she had a green thumb and an
eye for beauty, and transformed neglected yards and dilapidated rooms into
stunning gardens and cozy living spaces. Family and community were core
values for Gerry. She spent countless hours tracing her ancestry and
documenting the stories of her forbears. She visited relatives in Slovakia
twice — first in 1969 and again in 1998. In 1978 she helped found the
Minneapolis Northeaster newspaper with personal funds and by securing its
very first advertisement from the iconic Elsie's Bowling Alley. During
this time, she also served on the Eastside Neighborhood Services Board of
Directors. On February 13, 2025, at age 92, Germaine passed away
peacefully at home, of heart failure. Survived by brother Nyle (Marilyn)
Pasko, daughter Janet (David) Lenius, grandchildren Tiernan, James, and
Joscelin; cousins, nieces, and nephews. Preceded in death by parents John
C. Pasko and Anna Susie (Masurka) Pasko, as well as sisters Valli Netland,
and Phyllis Pasko. The family asks that memorials be sent to the
Northeaster Newspaper. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sat. March
15th at 11 am, with visitation one hour prior, at Logan Park Rec. Ctr.,
690 13th Ave. NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413.

...

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Germaine Susie Bruins, please visit our floral store.