1935
2014
Alan Jay Bruce was born in Norton Kansas on May 9, 1935. His family relocated to Salem, Oregon. He was raised by parents Daniel and Mildred Casey and he was brother to Linda and Janice. He attended elementary and secondary school in Salem. Just shy of his high school graduation, in 1952, Jay enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served in the Marines during the Korean Conflict. Following his first four year enlistment, he served in the Marine reserves until 1960 and later served in the US Army Reserves until a final discharge in 1977.
He married Carol Blazek in Mill City, Oregon on November 9, of 1957. From that union came two daughters, Kristi and Diane; and a son, Michael. The young family first resided in Salem, Oregon and later settled in Beaverton, Oregon. In 1969, Jay and Carol separated but remained amicable following their parting of ways.
Jay served for 30+ years as an electronics technician for Tektronix. Following his time in Beaverton, Oregon, Jay purchased a houseboat and for 35 years, he lived on the Willamette River in Scappoose, Oregon. He was an avid outdoorsman and especially enjoyed fishing, hunting, and gun collecting.
Jay will be remembered for his unique, sometimes goofy sense of humor. He always had a funny, corny joke to share or a clever play on words. Jay had many close friends who loved him as much as he loved them. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and friend and will be missed.
He is predeceased by his parents; and his sisters Linda and Janice.
Survivors include his son, Michael Bruce of Canoga Park, California; daughters, Diane Tang of Portland, Oregon and Kristi Bruce of Anaheim, California; and grandchildren: Amy, Eric, and Erin Tang of Portland, Oregon and Mckensi Palmer of Anaheim, California.
A graveside ceremony and military honors, and inurnment will take place at Willamette National Cemetery, Happy Valley, Oregon, on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2014, at 1:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the charitable organization of your choice.
Thank You.
Arrangements under the direction of Skyline Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, Portland, OR.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
May 21, 2014
Kristi Bruce
My Daddy,
A man who is strong, smart, funny, loving.....loved, missed and so much more. He will be in my heart, soul, and dreams until we see each other again. My Dad always had a joke, riddle or a play with words that he thought were way funnier then I did. ha My Dad could build or fix anything (but his illness) which he gave one hell of a fight. My Dad has always been in my life, although I was raised by my step Dad Bob that I also love so very much. My Dad and I really bonded in the past 14 yrs. I now have 2 Dads in heaven. I want you back Dad...we weren't done yet. I do know your ok, you found the Lord and resting peacefully. I love you my Daddy, Your Kristi bug
May 2, 2014
Just once more....
April 29, 2014
Karen Lewis said it all "Lucky Them". To be with him....I will carry you in my heart "Snow Walker" My tears for the many that loved you. My joy for your many gifts you gave and to have had you in my life....forever a smile on my face...thank you Jay, forever and always...Cheryl
April 28, 2014
Paul Ehrlich
My family lived behind Carol, Diane and Kristi in Beavertn. May god bless you all.
April 23, 2014
Brian Rooney
I met Jay when I was just a little guy and became your neighbor in Oregon City. You and my Dad began a 41 year friendship. I have many fond memories of sailing, fishing, shooting and eating good food. You taught me how to sail, tie knots and take an interest in a bigger world. You always had nice words for me. I will remember the many things that you taught me and your contagious laugh will carry my happy memories of you.
April 22, 2014
Dennis & Karen Lewis
Our sympathy goes out to Jay's family & friends. We enjoyed Jay SO much. Dennis & I both worked with him at Tek for many years. Will really miss the Xmas boat parades and having him at our annual Tek friend reunion every August. Attached is a photo from our Sunday after Labor Day get togethers at Bob Schmitt's house. Jay was brilliant, funny, and always a pleasure to be with. Now he is at peace and has a new audience to entertain. Lucky them!
April 21, 2014
Jane Shattuck-Simpson
I had the pleasure of working with Jay at Tektronix for many years. I will always remember his sense of humor and quick smile. Jay was very well-liked and highly thought of, he was a great technical writer and a pleasure to work with. I also have many fond memories of some great parties on his houseboat on the Columbia River. Jay will be missed.
April 19, 2014
Forrest (Woody) & Cindy Woods
So sorry to hear of Jay's passing.
April 19, 2014
Bill and I met Jay and there was an instant bond of friendship. More so for Bill since they got up at the crack of dawn to play pool at the senior center.
Jay and I exchanged recipes and that led to eating, at Jay's, local eaterys and meals at organizations. We met his family and they felt like our family, so loving and fun. Jay we will miss you and look forward to seeing you again. Rest in Peace with our love. Bill and Retta Blocksom
April 19, 2014
Elaine Grant
Jay, you will be missed greatly. I loved my "other husband". It was a joy to know you and have you as my neighbor. Sleep in peace, my friend.
April 18, 2014
Keith Massingill
Semper Fi, my friend
April 18, 2014
Keith Massingill
Semper Fi
April 18, 2014
Bob and Doris McQueen
Hello Mike, Diane & Kristi, We are so sorry for your loss.
Your neighbors on Nadina Court-
Bobo and Doris McQueen
April 18, 2014
M'Lou Christ
I had the fun of sharing Thanksgiving dinners--and some others--with Jay in recent years--at the houseboat home of his close friends Larry & Elaine. Happy guy. He continually found a reason to smile & joke and keep enjoying himself & others. Great quality, that.
April 18, 2014
Kent Barnett
I knew of Jay before I met him. He was very active, dashing around Tektronix and getting things DONE!
When I met him that impression only deepened. Jay was energetic and devoted to doing good work. Kind-hearted and full of good humor.
I'll always remember Jay as a fine and good-hearted friend!
April 18, 2014
Bill and Ellie Miller
We are so sorry. We have such good memories of our days on the river with Jay, and of our visits with him these last few months. He was such a warm and witty friend and will never be forgotten.
April 17, 2014
Elizabeth Sanchez
I am truly sorry for your loss, sending you much hugs and prayers your way Kristi as well as for your Father and family....<3
April 17, 2014
Teri Grimes
Mike, Diane, Kristi (and the whole family),
I am so sorry for your loss. I do understand...
The pleasure I take in knowing he ran right into mom gave me a little chuckle.
I remember being at your house in Beaverton...all fond memories!
Of course I will continue to pray for the comfort that only comes from the Lord. Love you guys.
April 17, 2014
Vicki Routon
Mike, Diane and Kristi,
My heart is with you during this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that your fondest memories are with you as you lay your dad to rest.
April 17, 2014
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your love one. May God provide strength and comfort to the family during this time of grief. For he is close to the broken-hearted.
James 4:8
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