Services Friday, Aug. 6
Richard “Dick” D. Bruce passed away on August 1, 2021 at his home in Elmhurst at the age of 85. Dick is survived by his dearly loved and caring wife of more than 63 years, Betty, his three cherished daughters and sons-in-law Cheryl (Kevin) Smith, Joyce Bruce-Jiaras (MJ), Karen (Jeff) Benzin, his six adoring grandchildren Kristine (Gaëtan), Connor (Olivia), Jenna, Jake (Hannah), Anna and Cole, as well as his beloved brother Frank (Joni) Bruce. His dear brother-in-law Steve (Darlene) Huska. He is remembered fondly by his nieces and nephews, cousins and many close friends.
Dick was born in Kansas City, Mo., during the Depression on July 13, 1936 to Murrel and Gertrude (Dake) Bruce. He had an idyllic childhood with loving parents and many adventures and fun exploits in the pastures, woods and ravines in Mission, Ks. Dick met the love of his life, Betty, at the age of 16 and they built a life together which included a very tight-knit family, many deep and abiding friendships, a wide social circle, international travel, and dedicated involvement in charitable organizations, their church and the community.
Dick graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in business administration. Dick went on to enjoy a long career as an executive at Sears, Roebuck and Co. A promotion to the national headquarters brought his family to Elmhurst in 1969. His 33-year career at Sears encompassed a wide variety of positions from Catalog Order Buyer to Human Resources Management in the areas of training, recruitment, international operations, labor relations, and compensation and benefits.
Dick’s charitable contributions are too numerous to list. Highlights include 12 years as a volunteer fireman in Mission, Ks., where his father served as the fire chief for 50 years. He also held leadership positions at the American Cancer Society, Elmhurst Park District, Friends of the Elmhurst Public Library Foundation, Yorkfield Presbyterian Church, Yorkfield Food Pantry, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation and the National Association of Retired Sears Employees.
Dick remained active and physically fit throughout his life enjoying running, hiking, playing racquetball and golfing at his home in Lake Geneva. He had many interests including vintage cars, flying airplanes, bridge, Bible study, carpentry, public speaking with his radio-quality voice, and most importantly, spending time with his grandkids. Dick was a fun-loving, sometimes ornery, playful “kid at heart” and was always up for sledding, fort-building, fishing, dancing and playing games. Dick’s generosity of spirit extended beyond his family. He will be remembered by all who knew him for his kindness, warmth, integrity, willingness to help and personable, friendly presence.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 6 at Yorkfield Presbyterian Church, 1099 S. York St. Private interment will be at Arlington Cemetery in Elmhurst. For information – Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel, call 630-834-3515 or visit www.ElmhurstFH.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dick’s name to the Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry, 1083 S. York St., Elmhurst or www.eyfp.org.
