Bruce Hoos

Bruce Michael Hoos was born on February 27th, 1956 to Robert and Marian (Eckerle) Hoos. He was the youngest of four. He and his three sisters grew up on the family ranch south of Rushville. He went to country school through 7th grade. He then attended Rushville Public Schools graduating in 1974. While in High School he was involved in many activities! He was the class D 167lbs state wrestling champion. He was involved in FFA holding several officer positions and his Soil and Water team won the state competition. He loved to rodeo where he rode bulls, bareback horses and wrestled steers. His teammates voted him the MVP of the football team and he was the outstanding defensive player as a Junior and Senior. He was always very proud of his lead role and performance in the Junior class play "The Drunkard".

Bruce married Laurice Colwell Hoos in November 1973 and to this union 3 children were born. Judd (wife Brandy) Hoos of Rushville, Shannon (husband Brian) Thompson of Dakota Dunes, SD and Codi Hoos of Scottsdale, AZ. Bruce and Laurice moved to Ogallala NE for a couple years where he worked as a brand inspector. In 1978 they moved to Alliance NE where he worked as a conductor on the railroad and became involved in the Ranching operation with his mother. Bruce left the railroad in 1988 and the family moved back to Rushville NE. He and Laurice divorced in 1991.

Bruce lived his life as a free-spirited cowboy and entertainer. He had a passion for horses, cattle, & the ranch. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, welding, sports, and most of all having fun. Bruce had a strong faith in God, having read the bible several times. Very seldom obedient. Bruce spent several years educating the Nebraska corrections system, which he loved to talk about and seemed to enjoy. He found the humor in any situation. He challenged the world. His perspective, words of wisdom, friendship and support will be missed my many. Bruce Hoos was indeed a rare breed.

Bruce passed away on February 13th, 2018 at his home and is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his children and grandchildren, Judd, Brandy, Hayden, Hannah, & Hadleigh Hoos, Shannon, Brian, Audrey & William Thompson, and Codi Hoos. His sisters, Valora Scott, Shirley (Gerald) Davis & Joyce Pickett. His dear friend, Kris House and her children Steve, Julia and Nathan. Will be missed by many.

His wishes were to be cremated with a portion of his ashes spread across some of his favorite spots on the creek and river. The remainder of his ashes he wanted buried with a monument in the cemetery on the hill overlooking the ranch. This will take place sometime this spring.

Memorial Services were held Saturday February 17, 2018, 2:00 PM at the Morse Memorial Methodist Church, Rushville, NE. A Memorial has been established for the Morse Memorial Methodist Church and donations may be sent in care of Chamberlain-Pier Funeral Home, PO Box 366 Gordon, NE 69343.

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