SARARTOGA SPRINGS, NY- Eugene Joseph Bruno (Gene), of Saratoga Springs, passed away on August 20th, 2025 after a sudden medical episode. He was surrounded by love from his three favorite people: April, Joseph, and Justina.

Gene was born on January 27th, 1951 to Joseph and Marie Bruno in Kingston, NY. Gene played basketball for Kingston High and loved spending time at his grandparent's restaurant, The American Italian Restaurant. After graduating from Kingston High, he went on to study at St. Lawrence University and UAlbany, where he received his master's degree in education.

Gene stayed in Albany, where he worked as a substitute teacher by day and wore his signature polyester bellbottoms and low cut shirt to work at a local nightclub called Hobos. It was then that his life truly began - when he met and charmed his soulmate April.  They would have been married 45 years this November.

Gene and April moved to Saratoga to take on a small business and start a family. That business grew to become the heart and soul of their lives - Jo Ann's Candy House, a "sweet" staple of the Saratoga community.

In 1983, they welcomed their son Joseph Eugene and later completed their family with their daughter, Justina Rose.

Together, The Bruno Family built a successful business and had a wonderful life in Saratoga - a community Gene loved and was proud to be a part of. When he wasn't tending to his lawn, he was the best neighbor anyone could ask for. Always ready to lend a hand or share a smile.  He had a genuine connection with everyone who walked through his doors and welcomed them like old friends.

Gene is survived by many people for whom he is simply irreplaceable; his wife April, his children Joseph and Justina; His aunts Rose (Nick) and Louise (Bob); His three brothers, Tony (Deborah), Louis (Gina) and Ronald. Several cousins, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his many "little people" whom he loved like grandchildren and who adored him as their  "Gigi"; countless friends, neighbors and customers whose lives were made better by knowing him. And lastly, a very important little dog named Stanley.

Please join us for calling hours on Sunday, August 24th, from 1 to 4pm  followed by a time for remembrances at William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Home, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Saratoga County Children's Committee, P.O. Box 1254, Saratoga Springs, NY, which the family has supported for many years. And in Gene's memory, please continue to support the family legacy at Jo Ann's Candy House. A place filled with love, laughter and a sweetness Gene shared with all who knew him.