Dennis Brunner won four letters in basketball and three in football as a Bulldog. A four-year starter in basketball, Dennis led the Bulldogs in scoring his senior season, after which he was a unanimous All-Kansas Conference first team selection. Bruner had previously received second team all-conference honors as a junior after receiving honorable mention recognition as a sophomore.

After receiving his degree in industrial arts from McPherson College, Brunner began a 35-year teaching and coaching career, which included an undefeated state basketball Class BB championship at Durham High School in 1962, five Wichita City League championships and six state tournament teams including three third place finishes at Wichita North High School. He later served as industrial arts department coordinator for nine years and athletic director at North High for seven years. In 1994, he was named the Area IV KIAAA Athletic Director of the Year, and in 1995 received the KIAAA Distinguished Service Award.