Bruce David Bischoff

To take a theme from the excellent sermon given at Bruce's funeral, this is how I will remember "the Dude": He was a paradox to all those who want to box people in. He was "liberal," yet he was pro-gun and pro-hunter. He was anti-war, yet he was one of the most patriotic men I knew, and won awards for his stories on war veterens and their experiences. He opened the minds of many with his eloquent, informed writing, and he could always, always, back up is arguments with the facts. Bruce refused to be put in a box. I know his soul is resting peacefully, somewhere outside of the box.

Well Baldy-I took the trip to the Reed and Green for the trout opener this past week - I stood on the bank above the "Big Pine"and said a prayer- you must have heard me because the weather was fair and the fishing was good- we all had a good time but we missed you there-Hope to fish with you in the future-------------------------------------your good friend Billy K

I was greatly saddened to see that Bruce passed away while I was in Florida. Although I didn't now him personally, I very much enjoyed his column on the outdoors. He shared a love of nature like I do and I will miss reading the wit and insight he contributed to the Record Eagle and exchanging E-mails. My deepest and profound sympathies.

My sincere condolences to friends and family of Bruce Bischoff. Bruce's spirit and courage leave a lasting impression to all of us who had the privilage of working with him.

I worked in journalism for more than 20 years. And, what was my greatest achievement? I hired Bruce as a part-time writer at the Ogemaw County Herald. More importantly, I met a person who'd become a friend and mentor, and who challenged me every day, making me a better person. I'm very lucky that I have those memories and get to start a variety of stories with, "My friend Bruce ..." And that speaks volumes.

Dad,
I am keeping you so so close every day. I am so lucky to have you, to be your daughter, to be taught by you and loved by you and friends with you. You are a master of words, but I think even you would be stumped to find one huge enough to say how much I miss you. I am keeping you so very close.

To the Bischoff family you have my deepest symathies. I have enjoyed reading Bruce's writings, they reminded me of my own childhood because I had grownup living right next to your family. Bruce would talk about his kids and the places where he hung out while growing up on the farm and those were the same places we played as children. I am sorry for your the loss of your son and father. Just wanted to let you know I was thinking of you

I love you Dad. I miss you so much already. You impacted so many peoples lives and left a legacy.

I live in Kentucky, but my parents are in Midland, MI. Often I search the online news headlines in my favorite places in north central Michigan, including the Record-Eagle, and stumbled upon the James Cook article on April 12 about the life and death of Bruce Bischoff. Never having known of the outdoor columnist, I pulled in, read and collected a number of his columns. I have been touched by his creative imagination, his common sense, his gentle good humor and his fine descriptions of outdoor Michigan. I regret not having the opportunity to write to him as he had often invited his readers to do. So I send my sympathy to his parents and children so they know that Bruce has communicated Michigan to me in the way I have always appreciated but have so seldom seen expressed. I’m grateful for his life and legacy.

Though he is gone, Bruce left behind many memories and thoughts to ponder - especially in his writing. He was intelligent, thoughtful, artistic and mild-mannered. We'll miss you, Bruce, but you're still with us in spirit.

Bruce was a very thoughtful, talented person. He loved the out of doors and was able to express himself through his writing as one who loved all of nature. He dearly loved his four children. He seemed to be a quiet thoughtful person. He died much too young. He was brave and poised in dealing with a very devestating illness. Rev. Joe Robertson, a long-time friend.

The dude abides from a better place now. We'll all miss him terribly. Though we're thankful that his pain and suffering is over, we all feel the pain of his loss and will suffer without him in our lives. We have some great memories and even better photos, and we'll always remember him fondly.

Bruce was a good friend, a good man, and a good writer and editor. This newspaper was lucky to feature his talent and even-tempered opinion on outdoor issues over the past few years.

We love you, Bruce, and wish only the best for your family. We honor your life.