Serenus "SG" Grabiel Brugler II

It is with both sadness and gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Serenus Grabiel (S.G.) Brugler II, on September 10, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on January 4, 1946, in Kenton, Ohio, S.G. was the beloved son of Serenus Grabiel Brugler I and Mary Caroline (Dulin) Brugler, and older brother of Mary Lois Brugler.

S.G. spent his childhood in the village of Belle Center, OH before his family's move to Kenton, OH, where he graduated from Kenton High School in 1964. He began his academic journey at Ohio University, then transferred and proudly became an alumnus of Defiance College, earning his degree in education in 1968 (he was a member of the 1966 undefeated football team, which was inducted into the Defiance College Hall of Fame in 2016). He continued his professional development with a master's degree in educational studies from St. Francis College, Ft. Wayne, IN.

For three decades, S.G. inspired countless students as a dedicated teacher of general science, biology, and physiology and anatomy at Fairview High School in Defiance County. Beyond the classroom, S.G.'s energy and enthusiasm were evident on the field, gymnasium, and pool deck. He coached football, track, and volleyball at Fairview High School, led the Defiance Bulldogs football team as head coach in 1989, and joined his son Shane as an assistant coach for the Defiance Junior High wrestling team. He also coached the Defiance Blue Dolphin Swim Team in the '80s.

On August 24, 1968, S.G. married his partner-in-adventure, Linda (Weisgerber) Brugler. Together, they raised four children-Stephanie (Jay) Riegle, Suzanna (John Paul Semper) Brugler, Shane Brugler (Abbey Meek, partner), and Scott Brugler-who, along with grandchildren Sophia Riegle, Olivia Riegle, Sebastian Brugler-Semper, and Leonard Brugler-Semper, were his greatest joys.

Those who knew S.G. will remember him as a man who lived life out loud-a renaissance man devoted to sports, arts, politics and public service. He cheered with all his heart for the Defiance Bulldogs, the Defiance College Yellow Jackets, the University of Michigan Wolverines, and the Cleveland Browns. He was actively involved with the Fort Defiance players in the 1980s in a variety of productions such as Annie, The Music Man, and My Fair Lady as well as the Madrigal Feast, and Messiah performances. 

S.G.'s commitment to his community was boundless. Whether serving as host (with wife Linda as hostess) at the Skylark Club, as a member of the Defiance City School Board, contributing to the Defiance College Alumni Varsity D organization, volunteering as a Precinct Election Official, or presiding over the River Crossing Condo Association, S.G. led with both heart and humor. Most recently, he was honored to join the Defiance Public Library Board of Trustees. His zest for life and unwavering spirit left a lasting mark on all who were lucky enough to know him.

S.G. is survived by his loving wife Linda, their four children and grandchildren, and his sister Mary Lois. He was preceded in death by his parents, Serenus and Mary Caroline. 

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025 at Schaffer Funeral Home, 529 Jefferson Avenue, Defiance, Ohio from 2:00 - 4:00 pm and 5:00 -7:00 pm. A Memorial Service will take place at 5:30 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home on Monday, September 29, 2025 with Pastor Bruce Brown officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Defiance City Schools Athletic Boosters, the Defiance College Alumni Varsity D organization, or the Defiance Public Library.

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