Bruce R. Smith, Sr., 77, of Elmhurst, surrounded by his family, Bruce was the loving husband of Chris, nee Olson; devoted father of Bruce (Melissa), Mark (Betsy) and Jenny (Jeff) Pozen; proud and caring Papa of Haley, Hanna, Bruce III, Ellen, Brian, Adam and Jane Smith; Charlie, Max, Sam, Joe and Christy Pozen; dear brother of Dave, Rick, Kathy and the late Tom Smith.
Bruce was born in Oak Park, Illinois to the late Tom and the late Doris, nee King, Smith. He graduated from Fenwick High School before attending Western Illinois University where he was a member of the men’s swim team. While a student at Western he met and married his sweetheart Chris in 1963. A resident of Elmhurst since 1968, Bruce eventually joined his father and siblings at Central States Microfilming, a family business he helped guide for over 20 years. He was a member of the Elmhurst Police Department, where he proudly served since 1972 until his death. Providing community service through his role with the police department was his life’s work. Bruce enjoyed his cabin in Minnesota, collecting flags and reading, but spent most of his time with his family. He was a relentlessly caring and devoted grandfather and truly loved being with and helping people. His big strong hugs will be missed, as will his infectious laugh. Visitation Wednesday, 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 South York Road, (½ mile North of Saint Charles Road), Elmhurst. Friends and family will meet Thursday, 10:00 a.m. for a funeral service at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 East St. Charles Road. Interment Saint Peter’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Hundred Club of DuPage County, PO Box 88538 Carol Stream, IL 60188-8538, an organization that provides death, disability, and education benefits to survivors of fallen law enforcement officers and other first responders. For funeral information please call 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com
Bruce R. Smith, Sr.
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Comments (9)
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Kim and Terry Wietzorek
We will miss you so at Bethel sweet Bruce. Your loving and caring ways meant so much to so many. Your love of your family is an inspiration to us all. Rest in peace Bruce.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Chris and your beautiful family.
Kim and Terry
Haymaker
I miss you. We all do. I love you papa. I love you so so so much.
Michael Brook
I’m so sorry for your loss Bruce was a wonderful man ,he sure loved his family.
Lynn Halper
Bruce and family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. It appears he was a wonderful man that lead a full and happy life.
Lynn Halper
Terry and Mary Ellen Grisim
Chris and family
Our deepest sympathy on your loss. Bruce was a great guy. I had the opportunity to talk to him in the car wash not too long back. We’re sorry we can’t be there, we are at our place in Florida. Blessings to you all.
Joe Saydlowski
Bruce and Family, We are very sad to hear about the passing of your father. Your friends at Partner Re have you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Joe Saydlowski
Craig & Kendra Law
We are truly sorry for your loss; our thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones.
Sue Evans
Christie, I am so saddened about your loss.
My thoughts and love are sincerely sent to you and your family.
Love, Sue Evans
Jazzy
Sincere condolences. You went to heaven to soon. May you rest in peace. Ill always remember you! Jazzy (PCT Elmhurst Mem.)