JAMES ALFRED BRUCE

James Alfred Bruce, who was born Aug. 18, 1928 in Fort Frances, Ont., passed away peacefully on Friday, Dec. 8, 2006 in Yuma, Ariz. at the age of 78.
Jim spent his early years working in the logging camps in Ontario. As he grew up, he travelled extensively throughout Canada. He worked in remote locations, including Churchill on Hudson Bay, Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory, and Resolute Bay, north of the Arctic Circle.
He worked as a miner, Great Lakes’ sailor, fishing guide, and grain harvester. Eventually, he learned to weld and established himself as a talented pipefitter/welder.
He spent most of his adult life perfecting his skills on major construction projects in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota.
Jim emigrated to the United States in 1962. He married Lettia “Tish” Olson on Feb. 16, 1963 in International Falls, Mn. and adopted her two sons, Gregory and Neil.
Jim enjoyed fishing and hunting, as well as gardening and knife-making. He could make anything out of metal, and was always willing to assist his neighbours, friends, and sons with their projects.
Jim built things to last!
He also made friends easily wherever he went, and truly enjoyed the relationships he developed that last 20 years at Shady Acres RV park in Yuma.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Dolly Bruce.
He is survived by his wife, Tish; brother, Stuart (Darlyne) of Emo, Ont.; sons, Gregory (Donna) Bruce of Fosston, Mn. and Neil (Rose) Bruce of Redwing, Mn.; five grandchldren; and one great-grandchild.
He will be truly missed by his family and countless friends.
Jim has been cremated and a memorial service was held Monday, Dec. 11, 2006 at Shady Acres RV Park, where his family and friends gathered to share their memories of him.
His final resting place will be Falls Memorial Cemetery in International Falls.
A memorial celebration of life service will be held Saturday, April 28, 2007 at 2 p.m. at Green Larson Funeral Home in International Falls , followed by a gathering at the Union Hall.