May 2, 1932 - April 30, 2025
La Conner - On April 30th, 2025, Bruce Frederick Mauser passed away at the age of 92, with his family at his side. Bruce was born in Spokane, Washington, on May 2nd, 1932. He graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in 1951, and he enrolled at the University of Washington that same year. He joined the Marine Corps in 1953, served for two years, and was honorably discharged in 1955.
After his discharge, Bruce went to Coeur D' Alene, Idaho, where he worked in the construction business with his father. He met the love of his life, Sally Rust, and they were married in 1956. Their first daughter, Jill, was born in 1958. After which they moved to Moscow, Idaho, where he completed his Architectural studies at the University of Idaho and graduated in 1960.
The family then moved to Spokane in 1960, where Bruce worked at several different architectural firms, gaining valuable experience and honing his craft. In 1961, the couple welcomed their second child, Betsy.
In 1967, Bruce co-founded his own architectural firm, Environmental Concern Inc. (ECI), along with three partners. The firm specialized in public work projects. Over the years ECI expanded its reach with offices in California, Seattle, and Alaska. One of Bruce's notable projects was the 1973 redevelopment of the Flour Mill in Spokane. The following year, ECI acted as planning consultants for various exhibits during Expo 74. This further solidified their reputation in the architectural field.
In 1988, Bruce opened and managed ECI's Seattle office, and by 1989, he and Sally made the permanent move to Seattle. Two years later, in 1991, ECI merged with a Seattle-based architectural firm to form Integrus Architecture, combining offices in both Seattle and Spokane. Around this time, Bruce and Sally purchased a home in La Conner, where they embraced the scenic beauty of the Skagit Valley and Puget Sound. Though Bruce commuted to Seattle for several years, he retired in 1996, allowing him and Sally to fully enjoy their surroundings.
Even in retirement, Bruce remained active in his profession until the age of 91, contributing to local projects, the La Conner Retirement Inn, Wyman Park, and Swinomish Golf Links. He was described as a pleasure to work with. He was known for his incredible creativity and environmental awareness. Bruce's passion for designing buildings never waned. His work reflected his dedication to both aesthetics and sustainability. He was an accomplished architect.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bruce was a devoted family person. His role as a husband and father was one of his greatest legacies, demonstrating his profound commitment to his family. He took care of Sally for 14 years after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Even as she was slipping away, he treated her with the same love and respect as on their wedding day. As a father, he always stood by his daughters. He stressed the importance of education, and the value of hard work to become successful in life. Bruce will always be remembered and loved by his family and friends.
He is survived by his daughters: Jill Bell and Betsy Neve; as well as three grandchildren: Daniele, Samuel, and Samantha; and three great-grandchildren. As well as his brother, Gregg Mauser; and his sister, Linda Karle.
To share memories of Bruce, please visit Evans Funeral Chapel website
www.evanschapel.com/obituary/Bruce-Mauser.
Published by Spokesman-Review on Jun. 15, 2025.