Robert Brutinel

Robert “Bob” Brutinel was born in El Paso, Texas, on September 4, 1924, to an emigrant family from France. He grew up in Clifton, Arizona, and later settled in Casa Grande, where he established a plumbing business that still bears his name. At one hundred years of age, he remains active in the trade.

At age 17, Bob expressed his desire to join the Marine Corps, but his mother refused. Upon turning 18, he left high school and headed to Marine boot camp in California. During World War II, he was assigned to Guadalcanal and later fought in the brutal battle of Iwo Jima, where he carried a flamethrower and C2 explosives. Brutinel charged enemy pillboxes, silencing machine guns, and even survived a sniper bullet that nearly cost him his life. He was awarded the Silver Star and a Purple Heart for his bravery.

After the war, Bob returned to Casa Grande, where he became a beloved mentor to young plumbers and an influential community member. He actively participated in St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and contributed to local projects, including the renovation of VFW Post 1677. Bob celebrated his 100th birthday on September 4, 2024.