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Bruce Ickes Obituary

Bruce Ickes "Our Bucket full of Sunshine" Our dear husband, father, son, brother and friend died suddenly on July 24, 2008 of Occlusive Coronary Artery Disease. He spent the last morning of his life on the patio of his home that he enjoyed so much.Bruce was born on June 13, 1957 to Charlene and Neven Ickes. Bruce and his family recently traveled to his hometown of Page, Nebraska to enjoy time with his loving parents; brothers, Bob (Sheri) Ickes, Lee (Cindy) Ickes; sister, Teri (Jerry) Meyer and extended family members and friends. He was grateful for our time there. Bruce was a free-thinker with a kind and gentle soul. He would always lend a caring ear. His wide interests and great sense of humor made talking with him a pleasure. Bruce married Clea Feight on August 19, 1995. We were better people because of each other. Two sons, Zachary and William, were born through our love for each other. Bruce loved us deeply and unconditionally. We loved him with our hearts and souls. Bruce was a member in good standing of AA for the past 24 years. He cared deeply about his AA family. Bruce had been given the Keys of the Kingdom and had discovered the happiness, joy and peace of inner freedom. According to Bruce's wishes, no formal services will be held. Everyone is invited to join us to do honor to Bruce's life at the Cottonwood Country Club, 1780 E. Lakewood Dr., from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2008. Maps are available at www.cottonwoodcc.org. He would want us all to dress casually. Online condolences to the family at: www.holbrookmortuary.com In lieu of flowers, please make donations for the education of our children. YOU AND NO OTHER, MY LOVE Clea

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Published by The Salt Lake Tribune on Jul. 27, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Ickes

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Terra Riley

August 26, 2008

Dear Clea:

I only hope you take comfort in knowing that, simply, Bruce made the world a better place. That is all one can truly wish to do with their time on this earth. On my one year birthday in AA, just before he died, he signed a card for me and said, "this is just the beginning, peace, bruce".... And it is just the beginning, the beginning of crying for someone because you lost them, but also smiling and thanking God that you could know and love him. You will see him again. To the boys: do not give up on your dreams. Your father will watch you proudly every day, just as mine has, even when we slip and fall, they take pride in our ability to dust ourselves off and keep on keepin' on. Clea, I am so deeply sorry, I needn't tell you, he loved you with all of his heart. That was clear all along. You will go on.

All of my love,

Susan Harshbarger

August 8, 2008

To the Ickes family:
Although I worked with Bruce for a very short time at ASIG I found him to be one of the nicest people I have known. I was part of the accounting staff and Bruce always stuck his head in the door just to say "Hello". Even on my first day on the job. He was always such a pleasure to work with. I was distraught after he had been in the car accident thinking I wouldn't see his smiling face anymore however did get to talk to him trying to get his disability insurance payments set up and going to the home address and that too was a pleasure. I couldn't believe it today when Maureen
Ackman from ASIG told me he had died. He touched the lives of so many people and was a wonderful example for people to follow. He will be missed by many.

dan bauer

July 31, 2008

now you can change the porch light in heaven. love you my friend.

danny from south salt lake!!!!!!

Mary Kerby

July 30, 2008

Bruce ... What can I say... Your memory will live on thru the lives you touched... You will always have a special place in my heart...Thank You for being a part of my sobriety...Your family will feel your spirit in special times...GOD BLESS THEM...Until we meet at that AA meeting in the sky... Fairwell my friend... HUGS...Mary...

Ana Rumery

July 29, 2008

Clea, Zach and William,

I was shocked when Andrew told me what had happened. I am sorry to hear of your loss. I didn't know Bruce well, but knew of him because of Andrew's many years of friendship with Zach. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

The Rumery Family

Lyle campbell

July 29, 2008

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Rick Viles

July 29, 2008

Clea & Family,
My memories of Bruce will always be whenever i approached him, he always,with no exception, always had a very comforting and truly welcoming smile as he greeted me, really making me know i was loved and appreciated. His message always backed up that 'smile'. He will truly be missed by many, and as we all hopefully feel, he's at the big meeting in the sky. My prayers are with you and yours, Clea. Rick Viles.

Tom Fischer

July 29, 2008

I was priveledged to know Bruce from his infrequent visits to our 8:00am Eye Opener meeting at the Alano Club. His humor and insight always added to the meeting as well as his hug afterwards. It was a real honor to have known and I am sure that our Heavenly Father needed him for something important.

Lisa Kennington

July 29, 2008

My darling, dear friend Clea,
I am so very, very sorry to hear of the loss of your dear sweetheart. It is never an expected event losing a loved one and I hope that the sadness and grief will soon be softened by the remembrance of those wonderful times you spent during your life together. What a wonderful support of family and friends you have. Please hug and kiss those sweet boys for me and know that you are in my prayers. I love you dear friend.

Tony Lucero

July 29, 2008

Dear Ikes Family, I'v had the great pleasure of knowing Bruce and hearing him share countless times in meetings. He would always bring a smile to a newcomers face.The rooms of AA will never be the same without that smile.Thanks for riding with me to that meeting that day hippie Bruce! I,l see you someday in that big meeting in the sky!

Don Potter

July 29, 2008

Clea;
I learned of Bruces passing from Nancy D. yesterday. I`ve been gone from the SL area for a while and was quite surprised and saddened. One more for the big meeting in the sky. As Joyce went up about 2 years ago, I know the hurt can be great but in time it lessens, and the fellowship can help the bad times.
Love, Don Potter

chuck farnworth

July 29, 2008

Clea: Just a line to offer condolences in the loss of your husband. You and your boys are in our prayers. I know that you will persever, because thats the way you are. You are one of the great ones.

Debbie Buhler

July 29, 2008

Clea, I just found out Bruce has joined Bill W. I wish I could find the words to express how he help me in my first years of sobriety. I now have 21yrs and he was part of building my sobriety foundation. Please know that you are in my prayers as well has my husband's (Dave). Laughter is the wound that comes to mind when I think of Bruce. Bruce brought laughter to so many. May God be with you always!

Mike Fredrickson

July 29, 2008

Clea and Family,
My deapest condolences for your loss, heck for all our loss! Bruce was a "one of a kind" person whose sharing enthralled many of us with the stark reality of his story. He will be sorely missed. My your higher power wrap you in his arms and confort you through all of this. Remember, he is not gone as long as we keep him in our hearts!

B J Barber

July 29, 2008

Hi Sweet Clea, I never had the pleasure of meeting in person this beautiful man your friends are writing about, however, I talked to him on the phone several times. He was so polite, warm and friendly that I forgot that I had not actually met him! But, I am pretty sure that knowing the completely caring, giving sweetheart that you are, was to know Bruce as well. God bless you, Zach and Willy. I look forward to attending the gathering in honor of Bruce.

mark lapoint

July 28, 2008

i got to know bruce at our friday night card games this year, i was impressed by his easy-going demeanor, and i always looked forward to seeing and talking with him. my condolences to you and your family.

JOHN & BETH MOODY

July 28, 2008

CLEA,
Your husband was someone you could'nt forget I know it was only that once at the department Christmas party, he was so easy-going alway's had a smile on he's face what we remember about him was the damn price tag on his pants hell we all laughed. He did'nt like to dress up, but you wanted him to. We also remember him saying how much he loved spending time with his kids. We are so deeply sorry for loss.

Jaynie Compton

July 28, 2008

Dearest Clea and family, Words can not express my sorrow for your tremendous loss. How your hearts must hurt. When I saw the obituary I had to put it down several times because of the tears of sadness and the tears of love that I have for you and Bruce. I am so very, very sorry. I know that the tears that we shed and the sorrow we feel are a true measurement of the love we all have for our sweet sweet Bruce. The loving, kind, and precious soul he is will forever live on in all the hearts of us who loved him so very much. May God comfort you.

Clark Richards

July 28, 2008

Goodbye Bruce. Thank you for teaching me not to take life or myself too seriously. You taught by example, never complaining about the pain you were in or the unfortunate circumstance of your auto accident. Many years ago I also learned from you what it meant to be grateful and what it looked like to be humble. I will miss you. Godspeed Bruce.

Launa Lee Hulsey

July 28, 2008

Clea,
I met Bruce 21 years ago, and I thank God for his love, wisdom and patience with me. He was one of the first people to guide me on "the road of happy destiny". Bruce would listen, laugh, and say what was was needed in simple terms. The greatest gift I recieved from Bruce was being able to laugh at myself. We had some great times. His passing was a great shock to me and Kass. He was a true success in loving, living and walking the spiritual path that we strive to obtain. We will miss him as well as many others whose lives were touched by his gentle soul. Our sympathy, love and prayers go out to you and the boys.
Launa Lee and Kass H.

Stan Kairawicz

July 28, 2008

Bruce..You really had what i wanted. Just being in your presents would bring me peace. Best regards to Cleo and family.

July 28, 2008

Clea &family, thank you for sharing with us- you and yours are a gift
Kent Walton
Kelly Benson

Chris Sine

July 28, 2008

Dear Clea, I never had the privilege of meeting Bruce but it is very clear that he is truly loved, which is the greatest treasure any of us can obtain. The love and compassion that Bruce shared will continue through the eternities. May blessings of love, comfort, and fond remembrance fill you and your family’s souls.

Susie Ellis

July 28, 2008

Clea,
What a great man he was. You two were a very special couple and had the ability to make anything fun. I love you and you will forever hold a very special spot in my heart. What a great friend you are. Remember the good times and treasure them. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Love Always

Shauna and James Baird

July 28, 2008

Clea,
Our thought and prayers are with you, Zachary and William . We are so sorry for your loss. May you have the strength needed to carry you through. We love you!

Mike Christy

July 28, 2008

A big part of my AA story is that I was so lucky to have met the right people at the right time. Whenever I share that, Bruce is at the top of the short list of people I'm thinking about. After hearing Bruce speak one time, I recognized what a special fella he was and I asked him if he would be willing to help me stay sober, of course, like he did with countless others, he said yes. Might not be alive and sober today without his help. The most humble, selfless and non-judgemental person I have ever known and on top of that he was one cool cat. Clea, it was a privlege to watch you guys fall in love and build such a wonderful life together. To Zach and Will, I lost my Dad many years ago when I was about your age and I don't think a day has gone by that I haven't had fond memories of him, I'm sure it will be the same for you guys and I hope you can find some comfort in knowing that your Dad will live on in the memories of the many people he touched and helped

Spence

July 28, 2008

"We are not a glum lot, we absolutely insist on enjoying life."
Bruce, you are one of those that I learned this from. There are countless lessons you've taught me, but this is one of the greatest. This is why I stay sober, to enjoy life, and I am forever grateful to you, one of my teachers, and even more so, a friend. I can only pay you back, by passing on what I learned from you, to the next man or woman that walks in. You are loved, and will be missed!
-spence

Paula Densley

July 28, 2008

To My Dear Clea,

I opened the newspaper today and glancing down the columns your name jumped out at me. As I began to read the obit I was so sad that this great man was your husband and dear friend.

I know you two are sole mates and he will be greatly missed by you and your family. Just know you are in my thoughts and prayers today and always.

Thank you for your friendship and help you have been such an inspiration to me!

Love always,

Paula Densley

Rod Gibb

July 28, 2008

Bruce was one of the first people to make me laugh at a time in my life when laughter seemed so far out of reach.
Thank you :)
Rod

Mary Hooper

July 28, 2008

Dearest Clea, Was deeply sorry to hear about your loss. May you and your family find comfort in remembering the good times that you all shared. God bless.

Mariela Pacheco

July 28, 2008

Clea,
I knew him a long time ago and I knew that he was a good man and wonderfull person.
I am sorry for your loss.

April Baird

July 28, 2008

Dear Clea,
How saddened I was to hear of the passing of your sweetheart. I love you and want you to know you are and will be forever in my thoughts and prayers. Love you,

Bob Brittain

July 28, 2008

Clea, I'm so sorry for your loss. You and Bruce were more of an inspiration to others than I think you'll ever know. Thank you for all you have done.

Stan

July 27, 2008

Even in your passing Bruce lessons are learned. Living day by day has more meaning today than it did yesteday. Find a meeting room and get coffee ready for the rest of us who will follow. God be with your family, and may you find peace.

Elizabeth Menlove

July 27, 2008

Clea-
The obituary you wrote was very touching and shows the deep love you and Bruce share. I know your heart aches for your loss and I pray that you will be comforted and find peace.
love,
Elizabeth Ickes Menlove

Jim Zoani

July 27, 2008

Dear Ickes Family, Bruce was such a genuine person, his sense of humor was amazing, I was captivated everytime he shared in a meeting or one on one with me. I will miss getting his coffee for him during a meeting ( a little inside joke that Bruce & I shared). My heart goes out to you (Clea) and the rest of your family. I will miss his smile, and the way his eyes would light up when he would make people laugh.

Nancy Derbidge

July 27, 2008

Clea and Family
Bruce was an extraordinary person
He could light up a room when he entered it, His smile and his hugs
were what I needed, Bruce was very special friend to me and John, I know he is up there with all the AA's that has gone before him. May God Bless and keep all of family safe untill you see Bruce again.

Alexander Moore

July 27, 2008

Bruce;You were the only person that I really related to.Our lives were so much alike.You were like a brother to me.It has been a privilege to have been able to know you,walk with you and talk with you.

Ray & Vickie Young

July 27, 2008

Clea & Family:
Knowing Bruce as we do he would be talking about the rabbit and the Bear to a new comer. You are in our prayers and thoughts. Love Ray & Vickie Young

Tracy Hales

July 27, 2008

Bruce...
You're going to be missed by so many people. You always knew how to put a smile on peoples' faces. You had a great sense of humor. You'd always make funny comments to my little girl to get a smile on her face. Thank you... My heart goes out to your family. Wish you wouldn't of had to go so soon..
Love & miss you..

Julie Ickes

July 27, 2008

Clea, boys, Bud & Charlene, & all the great Ickes family:
When I heard the news I was shocked and saddened to say the least. Bruce was one of the sweethearts of the world. And you all endured so much after his accident.... Some things in life seem really unfair. Stay strong Clea. Your boys will need you now more than ever. And knowing the kind of person he was, I know that Bruce will not want you to remain sad forever. Love, Julie Ickes

Susan Laney

July 27, 2008

Clea, Zack, and Will,

I am so grateful to Bruce for his willingness to include Jacob in his quality hoop time with his boys and the example of patience and kindness he showed both Jacob and Serra. He was a wonderful father and I always enjoyed seeing you together walking Libby in the neighborhood we share. We never know how our individual acts of kindness effect those we come in contact with in our daily lives.

I am deeply saddened at this time of great loss for your family. May you feel surrounded with love and find comfort in each other and by those who loved him…Bruce will be missed.

Serra & Jacob Willis

Bruce Jones

July 27, 2008

Words cannot express my shock and sorrow at the passing of my friend Bruce. At times, people confused him with myself, and I suppose this always boded better for me. His reputation of kindness, and mine of arrogance, always elicited a chuckle from us both, when this would happen. To Clea, Zach and Will. So blessed are you, and us, to have had him, and I offer you my prayers of comfort at Bruce’s untimely passing.

Shannon Elliott

July 27, 2008

Clea, Zach and Will,
I wanted to tell you how very much you mean to our family. Bruce touched my life first 21 years ago and then through god brought you all into our lives and I am so grateful for it. Our love and thoughts are with you. You mean so much to us. Thankyou!
Shannon Dave and the kids

Carl Beard

July 27, 2008

This is a sad moment for many of us who have been touched by Bruce, yet a great gift by his example. He took me on my first 12th step call over 21 years ago,I said
I'm not qualified, he said this is what we do,he taught me kindness for others and compassion for the seemly hopeless,the joy of giving hope to an another,lessons that come from example not just talking about it . I have been blessed to have crossed paths with Bruce,his example and his levity will be missed at Sugar house mens group and many other groups."man never dies when he lives in the heart of another".

Craig Broadbent

July 27, 2008

My heart is heavy over losing such a great friend and mentor, the loss to the fellowship is without words. In 1993 at the club I picked up a two year chip, and you and Clea exclaimed, "you now have double digit soberity". The laught was good but the accompaning advice was priceless. I'll never forget, my deepest sympathy to you Clea Love, Craig

Clark Phelps

July 27, 2008

Bruce....I could always have a laugh with you...Thanks. .....And Clea....I'll just add to all the love that is coming from all your friends.

Pamala Sayers

July 27, 2008

Clea and family,
Bruce was such a truely unique and wonderful person. The love he had for you and the boys was absolutely an example of unconditional love. He inspired us all to be better. I am so sorry for your loss.

Byron Bateman

July 27, 2008

Clea, and family –

My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. I have enjoyed the association that I have had throughout the years with Bruce. Bruce has been a teacher in many respects and he will be greatly missed by all of us who have known him, and enjoyed his sense of humor as well as his helpfulness. The club, and gatherings will be poorer without him. Rest peacefully, my friend.

brian groesbeck

July 27, 2008

bruce, your love and compassion to every soul you ever touched,was the greatest example of a loving god and grace,that made life a littie bit better,i will always smile when i think of you. thank you brian g

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