Bruce James Brewer's Obituary
Bruce James Brewer passed peacefully at home on August 9, 2023.
Bruce is survived by his wife, Sandee; his sisters, Pat, Jerrie (Gene) and Sue.
He is survived also by his son, Lenny and daughter Lara (Josh) Cates and grandchildren Anika and Henry.
Bruce was a step-father to Tiffani Engles and Danny Ray ( Carmen) and step grand-dad (Papa) to Spence and McKenna.
Bruce was preceded in death by his brother Bob and his parents, Robert and Ruth Brewer.
Bruce studied optometry in Oregon and Illinois. He practiced in Utah for many years, first in his own practice, then with Standard Optical and other local optometric companies.
Bruce married the love of his life, Sandee, thirty-one years ago at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Sandy, UT.
Bruce planned for his future, beginning with his paper route in Rock Springs, WY. He attended college, financing his tuition by working 16-hour days at a Conoco gas station in summers and during Christmas break. He graduated from Pacific University Forest Grove Campus and earned his M.S. in Vision Science for Indiana University School of Optometry. Bruce was well versed in nutrition and supplements. He was well known for preparing a daily nutritious smoothie for Sandee.
Bruce and Sandee loved hiking, roller blading, travel with family and friends and a fine meal at a restaurant and just spending time together.
He was known by family and friends as a great source of information for almost any subject of interest. His daughter, Lara remembers well her Dad explaining things “in great detail and with lots of passion”. She also recalled one of Bruce’s optometry patients telling her he was the best optometrist she ever had. She especially liked how he took time to explain in detail what was happening during the exam.
Bruce will be remembered for his many accomplishments during his lifetime but most of all he will be remembered by those who knew him best in the words of his stepson, Danny Ray, “Bruce was one of the kindest, most generous and loving human being we have ever known. Danny and family are beyond grateful for the many years of memories with him. Our Papa will be greatly missed.” Tiffani Engels added, “To say it as simply as I can, Bruce was so good to us and most importantly, he was wonderful to our Mom.”
As his wife, I couldn’t give a better description of who Bruce has been to me since I met him over 32 years ago. I absolutely agree with Danny’s and Tiffani’s description. He was the kindest, most loving and generous person I’ve ever known. I’ve been over-the-top blessed and privileged to be his wife. Bruce was the “Wind Beneath My Wings.” He always always supported me. I will miss him but I’m grateful that Bruce is free and walking and talking with Jesus. I imagine he will keep the Lord busy for a very long time with his many questions.
A Celebration of Life is planned for mid-September for close family and friends
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