Jerome L. "Jerry" Bruce

Jerome L. Bruce “Jerry”, 69 of West Branch, MI surrendered all to Jesus on January 12th at Bay City Regional Medical Center. Bay City, MI. Jerry was the youngest child born to Robert and Hazel (Hanson) Bruce on October 24, 1943 in Park River, ND. Jerry and his siblings learned to work hard on their family farm. He graduated from Walsh County Agricultural School in 1961 the same year he first met his first wife, Margaret Conlon. Jerry served as a mechanic in the 3rd Armored Division stationed in Germany. He returned to North Dakota and graduated from University of North Dakota and received a teaching certificate from Mayville State College. Shortly before graduation, Jerry was united in marriage to Margaret in 1966 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic church in Grafton, ND. They lived in Grand Forks, Alamo, Park River, Lankin and Grafton, ND. Jerry and Margaret had four children Brian, John, Paul and Marjery all raised primarily in Grafton. While in Grafton he was a member of the volunteer fire department, a Cub Scout leader and a member of the American Legion Marching Band. Jerry worked extremely hard to support his family. He had the strength, intelligence, integrity and ability to do anything he applied himself. He worked as a teacher, a school principal, a mechanic at A&H Industries and an assembly shop foreman at Harriston Industries. His most recent job before retiring was as substitute teacher in the West Branch area schools. Outside of work he had various interests including reading, family, fishing, traveling, family and football. He never stopped learning and sharing what he knew. Jerry moved to Michigan, the earthly home of his heart. Michigan and retirement offered him the ability to focus on his interests or a well deserved nap, whichever he preferred. On July 7, 2007 he committed to spend the rest of his life with his wife Sylvia Speas. Along with their Scotties Cutty and Duffy they set on many adventures. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, wife Margaret and son Brian. Jerry is survived by John, Virginia Beach, VA; Paul, Crookston, MN; Marjery (Marc) Baetsch, West Fargo, ND; Sylvia Speas, West Branch, MI; Brother David Bruce, Park River, ND; Leona Ratliff; Milwaukee, WI, many cousins, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends. A memorial service will take place in the summer in North Dakota. Memorials may be sent to Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home who is in charge of the arrangements.