Robert "Bob" Eugene Bruce, Jr.

Lieutenant Colonel Robert "Bob" Eugene Bruce, Jr., USAF (Ret.), a dedicated fighter pilot, loving family man, and devoted servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully at home on November 5, 2025, in Jerome, Idaho. He was 81.

Bob was born on December 16, 1943, in Austin, Texas, where his late father, Robert Bruce, Sr., was stationed. As an Air Force child, he spent his childhood years moving among many military bases, a prelude to his own distinguished 20-year career in the United States Air Force. Throughout that time, Idaho was home base for the Bruce family.

After graduating from Upland High School in 1962, Bob attended the University of Idaho and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. While there, he forged lifelong friendships and spent time in the summers fighting fires for the BLM. He also reconnected with Bonnie Johansen, who became the love of his life. Bob and Bonnie were married on August 30, 1966, at the First Presbyterian Church in Jerome, Idaho. In his last year at the University of Idaho, Bob got the call to serve his country and joined the Air Force. He and Bonnie moved across the country to Georgia for pilot training.

Lt. Col. Bruce's first assignment was in Vietnam, where he flew the F-100 Super Sabre. After that, he and Bonnie took their family on many adventures until his retirement in September 1988. As in college, his time in the Air Force connected Bob and Bonnie with many lifelong friends. Most of Bob’s assignments included flying the A-7 Corsair II, but his dream was always to fly the F-16 Fighting Falcon. He was a decorated fighter pilot and a strong leader who finished his career as Squadron Commander in the 4450th at Nellis Air Force Base. After retiring from the Air Force, Bob continued his passion for flying, working as a pilot for Grand Canyon Tours and spending 13 years with EG&G Special Projects.

As committed as he was to serving his country, Bob’s greatest joy came from his family. Bob was known for his dedication to his loved ones. He made it a priority to attend the graduations, weddings, and other events of his children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. A few times, while stationed in South Carolina, he sat in football stadiums watching his daughter, Janet, compete in marching band competitions. His family and friends remember Bob for his sarcasm and humor that came at the most unexpected moments. Bob began playing golf at a young age and continued until he was no longer able. He shared that passion with his family, and you could find them all on the golf course after church on Sundays. Bob's son, Rob, made that passion into a career. In retirement, Bob and Bonnie enjoyed visiting college friends and Air Force friends, but they cherished planned adventures with Bonnie’s three brothers and their wives.

Bob was a man of deep faith. He served as an Elder at the First Presbyterian Church of Jerome and as a Vestry Member at other churches throughout his life. He served the Lord in quiet ways, but he also listened to the Spirit and shared his testimony with others. He was a mentor and accountability partner to others in their walk, and was a model of a man of faith for his family. He took great comfort in his faith, knowing he would soon be with Jesus. Not only has he “slipped the surly bonds of earth…and touched the face of God,” Bob is now dancing with Him!

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Sr. and Lera Bruce.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Bonnie Bruce, and their children: Janet Avery (Chad) and Rob Bruce (Brandi). He leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Marita Avery, Jacob Avery, Robert "RB" Banyan Bruce, and Sunny Castagnola. He is also survived by his sister, JoLynn Vegh (Jim), along with many cherished brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

The family would like to thank Visions Hospice and Dr. Kohtz for their loving care and support of Bob throughout his final days. We are thankful for the care and compassion you showed him and each of us.

A memorial service will be held for Bob at 11:00 am, Monday, November 24, 2025 at the First Presbyterian Church of Jerome, 262 E. Ave A, Jerome, ID 83338.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you send donations to the First Presbyterian Church of Jerome or the Idaho Food Bank.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Bob's memorial webpage at www.farnsworthmortuary.com.