Gerald Gene Bruce "Gene" of Lebanon, OR, passed away on March 27, 2025.  Born on August 24, 1940, in Dalton, NE, to John and Mary (Florke) Bruce, one of six children.  He had four children, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.  He was peaceful, loving, silly and kind to all of his family and friends.  His deep family roots in Cheyenne County, NE, stemming back to Florke homesteaders in the early 1900's.  Gene grew up in Cheyenne County and graduated from Gurley High School in 1958.  He was a good student, an avid athlete, and a hard worker.  Asked recently what part of his career he loved the most, he recalled his many years as a telecom lineman.  Never afraid of hard work or heights, he loved this work which took him across many states including favorites Montana and Oregon.

Gene enjoyed time with family, hunting, and watching football.  A lifelong Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, he wore red nearly every day for years.  Viewed as stronger than steel and able to do anything by his family.  Gene softened into a gentle giant as he aged.  He loved animals, flowers/plants, storms, and sitting in the sun.  He loved to joke and tease.  His was unconditional love.

Gene is preceded in death by son, Dane Isaac Bruce;  siblings Barbara, Bonnie and Larry;  and his parents, John and Mary Bruce.  Those who knew him will think of him when they see a Nebraska sunset, a deer in the wild, or phone lines on the horizon.

Gene will be laid to rest next to Dane in Lebanon, OR.  A family gathering to honor Gene is planned for the first weekend in May.  GO BIG RED!!!