Thomas A. Bruder Jr. Obituary, Death: Philadelphia Business Leader, Family Patriarch, and M.A.B. Paints President Died

The Philadelphia business community and countless family members, friends, and colleagues continue to honor the life of Thomas A. “Tom” Bruder Jr., a respected businessman, devoted family man, philanthropist, and lifelong sports enthusiast who passed away peacefully on January 24, 2022, at the age of 85.

Surrounded by his loving family in his final moments, Tom’s passing marked the close of a remarkable life defined by leadership, generosity, faith, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. Whether guiding one of the region’s most successful family-owned businesses, supporting charitable organizations, or creating lifelong memories with family and friends, Tom left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire those who knew him.

Early Life and Education

Born on July 18, 1936, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tom was the eldest of six children born to Thomas A. Bruder Sr. and Mary A. Bruder (née Stitt). Raised in a close-knit Catholic family, he learned the values of hard work, humility, loyalty, and service from an early age—principles that remained central throughout his life.

He attended St. Francis of Assisi School, continued his education at Waldron Academy, graduated from Malvern Preparatory School in 1954, and later earned his degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1958. His connection to Notre Dame remained strong throughout his life, and he became a devoted supporter of the university and its mission.

Following graduation, Tom proudly served in the Army National Guard, continuing his lifelong commitment to service.

A Loving Husband and Dedicated Family Man

Family was the foundation of Tom Bruder’s life.

He shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with his high school sweetheart, Kathleen Bruder (née Ryan). Together they built a loving family and raised six children: Thomas A. Bruder III (Lynn), John A. Bruder, Mary Kate Trusk (Todd), Timothy A. Bruder (Sarah), Christopher J. Bruder (Lisa), and James A. Bruder (Marisa).

His family continued to grow through numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including great-granddaughter Kellyn Q. Slagis, all of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy.

Tom was also survived by his sisters Mary Ann Flanigan, Patricia Irvine, and Janet Tegler, and was preceded in death by his brothers Michael A. Bruder and James J. Bruder, as well as his brother-in-law Al Tegler.

Those closest to him remember him not only as a successful businessman but as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and cherished patriarch whose guidance and encouragement shaped generations of his family.

Leading the Growth of M.A.B. Paints

Tom’s professional legacy is inseparable from M.A. Bruder & Sons, Inc., better known as M.A.B. Paints, a family business established in Philadelphia in 1899.

Following the death of his father in 1967, Tom assumed the presidency of the company at just 31 years old. Working alongside his brothers, Michael and James, he helped transform the regional paint manufacturer into one of the nation’s leading independent paint retailers.

When the brothers assumed leadership, M.A.B. Paints operated 18 retail stores and a single manufacturing facility. Under their direction, the company expanded dramatically to 132 stores across 14 states, with manufacturing operations in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Terre Haute, Indiana; and Orlando, Florida.

Tom’s leadership style emphasized integrity, accessibility, and respect. He maintained an open-door policy, treating employees as members of the extended Bruder family while encouraging collaboration, loyalty, and mutual respect throughout the organization.

Following decades of successful family ownership, M.A.B. Paints was sold in 2007, bringing to a close an extraordinary chapter in the company’s history.

A Passion for Sports and Lifelong Friendships

Away from the office, sports remained one of Tom’s greatest passions.

A former football player and track athlete, he remained an enthusiastic supporter of Notre Dame Football, Villanova Basketball, and the Philadelphia Phillies throughout his life.

Golf became another lifelong passion. Tom enjoyed longstanding memberships at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, for more than 60 years, and Indian Creek Country Club in Miami, Florida, for 54 years. Beyond the game itself, he treasured the friendships he developed at both clubs.

Tom also played a significant role in growing the sport of lacrosse. Inspired by his sons’ involvement in the game, he sponsored what became the MAB Paints Lacrosse Club in 1982, one of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s pioneering club programs. The team later captured championships at the prestigious Vail Lacrosse Shootout in 1993, 1995, 1998, and 2002, reflecting Tom’s enduring commitment to youth athletics.

Summers in Longport

Some of Tom’s happiest memories were created in Longport, New Jersey, where his family spent summers for generations.

Their beach home, affectionately known as “Sand Swept,” became a beloved gathering place for family celebrations, boating adventures, fishing trips, and unforgettable summer traditions.

Tom especially enjoyed entertaining family and friends, hosting memorable tent parties that brought together multiple generations and strengthened lifelong friendships.

A Legacy of Community Service

Tom believed success carried a responsibility to give back.

Throughout his life, he generously supported numerous organizations devoted to healthcare, education, and athletics, including Main Line Health, Riddle Hospital, Fitzgerald Mercy Hospital, Malvern Preparatory School, Neumann University, the University of Notre Dame, Villanova University, and the Maxwell Football Club.

His philanthropic work reflected the same values that guided his family life and business career—service, generosity, and genuine concern for others.

Funeral and Memorial Services

Family and friends gathered to celebrate Tom’s remarkable life on January 28, 2022, at St. Katharine of Siena Church in Wayne, Pennsylvania.

Visitation preceded a Mass of Christian Burial, while interment was held privately. A livestream of the Mass was also provided so that friends and loved ones unable to attend could participate in honoring his memory.

A Lasting Legacy

Thomas A. Bruder Jr.’s influence extended far beyond the success of M.A.B. Paints.

He will be remembered as a visionary business leader, devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, generous philanthropist, loyal friend, and passionate supporter of the people and institutions he cherished.

His legacy continues through his family, the business he helped build, the charitable organizations he supported, and the countless lives enriched by his kindness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

Even years after his passing, Tom Bruder’s life remains a testament to the enduring values of family, integrity, hard work, and generosity—qualities that will continue to inspire future generations.