Crafting Delight: Woodworking Adventures for a Cause

The outdoor enthusiast from Hillman has fashioned numerous hand-made items in his workshop located behind his residence, including a Detroit Lions bar that recently raised a $4,500 contribution at the Second Chance Animal Shelter Gala.

He takes pleasure in crafting distinctive, practical items for others to utilize and enjoy, such as an English rocking horse for his granddaughter, Charlotte, a fully operational spinning wheel for his daughter, Elizabeth, and an outdoor swing for a coworker’s birthday celebration.

In addition to woodworking, this passionate outdoorsman participates in hunting, fishing, plays drums, and more. In his basement, also known as his man cave, approximately 60 trophies grace the walls from his years of hunting, including a bison, a moose, and a bear, alongside numerous deer.

“My enthusiasm is hunting,” Bruski stated. “I play the drums, I play the saxophone, I enjoy drawing.”

News Photo by Darby Hinkley
The English rocking horse that Conrad Bruski crafted for his granddaughter, Charlotte. He mentioned that every child deserves a rocking horse.

He closed his career in September 2023 after working in security at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center. His voice can be heard on 99.3 WATZ delivering the Sportsman’s Report, alongside The Wild Life on 105.7 The Bird. During spring and summer, Bruski oversees the Lorien cottages on Long Lake, managing repairs and landscaping tasks.

Bruski, 66, has engaged in woodworking for as long as he can recall.

“My father was a carpenter,” Bruski shared. “He was employed as a carpenter at Huron Portland Cement back then.”

Bruski has five siblings, and he remarked that they all were taught to be resourceful and capable.

“Don’t purchase it if you can construct it,” Bruski advised.

News Photo by Darby Hinkley
Conrad Bruski stands behind his bespoke bar in the basement of his Hillman residence. The bar is one of numerous items Bruski has produced in his woodworking workshop.

He noted that he and his spouse Cyndi are a fantastic match.

“She is the most creative individual I’ve ever encountered,” Bruski remarked about his wife. “She specializes in stained glass… We collaborate seamlessly. We’ve tackled everything from homes, log cabins, to dollhouses for the children, for the grandchildren, and miniature furniture.”

They have five grown children and six grandchildren.

Bruski undertakes custom projects, along with creating exquisite pieces for auctions, such as the Detroit Lions bar to collect funds for Second Chance Animal Shelter.

Having been involved in woodworking for quite some time, he now has increased availability in retirement to contribute to the community by donating handcrafted items to generate income for local charities and organizations.

Courtesy Photo
Conrad Bruski meticulously crafted the Detroit Lions bar depicted above, which secured a $4,500 donation to Second Chance Animal Shelter at their recent gala.

“It feels gratifying to assist the community,” Bruski expressed. “I can do it in a wood shop. They’re enjoyable projects.”

He relishes in challenging himself with custom orders.

“Certainly, my favorite aspect is when someone approaches me with an image and asks, ‘Can you create this?’ I adore that,” Bruski said.

To reach Bruski, call 989-590-3268.

Courtesy Photo
Conrad Bruski constructed this wooden outdoor swing for a coworker’s birthday.

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