Howard Leroy Bruce
Share
A Mass of Christian Burial for Howard Leroy Bruce, 90, Canyon Lake, TX, formerly of Lawrence, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 7, 2023 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Lawrence, KS. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Lawrence. Howard passed away on Saturday, December 31, 2022 peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Howard was born on May 22, 1932 in Hunter, Kansas the son of Nelson Ray and Marguerite (Lashell) Bruce.
He was an active member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and School as well as, a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus. He enjoyed fishing and hunting with his family and friends.
He married Elizabeth Eilert in September of 1953 in Beloit, KS. To this union was born Steven “Steve” A. Bruce, Lawrence, Margaret A. Bruce (Kurt), Platte City, MO, and Richard “Rick” L. Bruce (Linda), Sunrise Beach, MO. Elizabeth passed away in 1964. Howard later married Mary Jo Heiman on August 7, 1966 in which she brought into their marriage a son, Jeffrey Lynn Bruce (Joyce), Eaton, CO. Together Howard and Mary Jo had four children, Rodney N. Bruce (Gwenda), Lawrence, Todd W. Bruce, Canyon Lake, TX, Jodell G. Elkinton (Brian), Canyon Lake, TX, and Juli A. Beadleston (Matt), San Antonio, TX; 25 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; and four sisters, Neola F. Wolfbrandt, Nancy J. Joyner, Shela Phiefer, and Vickie J. Fasulo. He was also preceded in death by his parents; his stepmother, Bernice (Hackenberg) Bruce, and two sisters, Lois Obert and Carol Brown.
He was a Electrician Supervisor at Farmland Industries for 39 years until he retired in 1994.
A Rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. with a visitation to follow until 8 p.m. on Friday, January 6, 2023 at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence.
The family suggests memorials in Howard’s name to St. John Catholic School and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
Prayers for friends and family.
Howard was a funny great human being and friend. He always had a funny story to share.
RIP Howard.
Juli and Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know I have you all in my thoughts and prayers. If you need anything, please let me know.
Howard was a gentle giant with a sweet soul. I know he will be greatly missed by his family. Thoughts and prayers to the Bruce family.
Sorry to hear about your loss. Sending prayers to my good friend Gwenda and her husband Rodney and family.
Sad to hear that Howard passed away. Also enjoyed being around him and listening to his stories. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Mary Jo and family,
We are sorry to learn of your great loss. May God comfort you and grant you peace as you keep the fond memories of Howard close to your hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rick and Jeff, Sorry for your loss.
Howard was always a bright light in my day. I was fortunate to know him in business at Electric Supply while he was still working as well as a fellow parishioner and SJ school volunteer.
His smile was contagious and he was always quick to laugh. As a wonderful friend to my father I had the pleasure of enjoying many stories over the decades.
May the entire Bruce family find comfort during this transition and know he has left a mark on many. Wishing you all peace and sending prayers.
My heartfelt sincere condolences to all the Bruce family.