Last night I was reflecting on friends lost and of course Bruce is the first one I thought of. Even years later, Bruce still comes to mind as one person who had a positive impact in my life and the way I view the world. Bruce and I first met in the Georgia Air Guard when I was a young second lieutenant. We were both Episcopalian’s but he accused me of being Catholic…said I had way to much guilt to be an Episcopalian! We became roommates and great friends. We got to see the world together. I got to laugh at an incredibly witty and intelligent comedian/friend. Once on a trip to Alaska our mutual friend Steve Fenner was enthralled with his new toy, a gigantic VHS video camera. He was busy documenting the Alaska wilderness when a bald eagle was spotted. During the filming Steve asked someone to “make the sound of its natural predator” in order to get the bird to respond. Bruce casually replied “bang! bang!”. Later Bruce left the unit, got out of the military and pursued his dream of teaching English in the newly formed Czech Republic. During this period (before the internet and cell phones) he and I would exchange letters (probably the last time I ever wrote one). I remember laughing that what he really missed was access to a can of chewing tobacco. I think I sent him some. The Bruce I remember was kind and always had time to listen to a friend. I miss you friend.

I met Bruce when he joined our VA Regional Office here in Des Moines after he joined us from (I think it was) Salt Lake City three or four years ago. He was Air Force, I was Army, and we had been to a few of the same places over the courses of our military careers. Wow. What a guy, and what a life. He was an aviator (the profession I know he loved most dearly), a sailor, an educator (he spoke often of his remarkable experiences in Czechoslovakia) , and a ski bum. And a reader. And a story teller. He wouldn't shut up about his kids. And when he laughed, and I mean really laughed, which wasn't terrifically often, his face would light up like a beam of sunshine. If you knew him you know what I mean. He was well liked and respected here and if there's a memorial service there are a couple of us that would be very honored to be included but of course no biggie whatever Bruce would want is fine. Respectfully,

Karen: Our sympathies go out to you and yours, for Bruce's loss. Time and geography always seemed to distant us...but we are family, still. We pray for your family's strength and that all good memories of Bruce will always remain with you.

Karen, Our deepest sympathy to you & your children. May your many memories bring you comfort in the days ahead. John, Patti. Allison, Ryan, & Jared Benson

Karen and family,

Our hearts go out to you at this time. Bruce was a good neighbor and was always good with all the kids in the neighborhood. He was a big kid and showed the kids how to just have fun and enjoy. He wasn't afraid to give his opinion and like to have a lively debate. He was always there if you needed help. He will be missed. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Thalia, Mark, Mike, Rachael, Rose.

Karen and family: I am so sorry to hear this. Bruce was a heroic neighbor who helped put out fires, assemble TV sets on Christmas eve, and loved playing out front with his children. Those are the memories that I will always hold of a man who was, like all of us, deep, complicated, and trying for the best. Blessings be on all of you as you deal with this sad death, and throughout your lives. I will be thinking of you.

Karen, Rebecca, Maxwell, Jackson and Lewis, Our hearts are with you in this deep sadness. Hugs are coming!