Bruce Sewell Kamer, 84, of Clinton, passed away on Thursday, June 6, 2024 at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Iowa City, Iowa.
Bruce was born in Clinton on January 17, 1940, the son of Harry W. and Gladys V. (Sewell) Kamer. He graduated from Clinton High School with the class of 1958 where he lettered in three varsity sports. Following high school, he attended The University of Iowa where he studied business administration.
After his time at The University of Iowa, in the early 1960’s Bruce served his country in the United States Air Force while stationed first at the James Connally Air Force Base in Waco, Texas, and later at the Selfridge Air Force Base near Detroit, Michigan. Even after his time in active service, he continued to honor fellow patriots and their service. Bruce and Rich Ullrich were instrumental in the fundraising and development of the POW – MIA memorial located on the grounds of the Clinton County Court House.
Bruce married Genevive Wollam Kamer on June 5, 1965, in Danbury, Texas. They settled in Clinton, Iowa, raising four children: Barbra Kamer, Bonita Musal (Michael), Brynjar MacGregor, and Brandi Koering (Jerry).
Following the closing of the family’s implement business, Bruce was employed as a Senior Inspector for Chemplex/Quantum for 30 years, retiring in 1997. Bruce officiated football for area and regional Middle School and High School football games for over 30 years. While doing so, he also served as the starter for Clinton High School cross country and track meets after Max Lynn retired. Bruce was a KCCH 32nd Degree Mason with the Clinton Consistory where he was active with the Shriners and Scottish Rite. He also spent time serving as a volunteer fireman in Clinton, and very much enjoyed his interactions with area fire departments.
Bruce is survived by a daughter, Bonita (Michael) Musal, and a son, Brynjar MacGregor; five grandchildren: Rebecca (Nathan) Swarts, Audrey (Elijah) Spears, Justin, Kian, and Westen. He was also recently blessed with a great-granddaughter. Bruce was preceded in death by his parents and two of his daughters, Barbra in 2013 and Brandi in 2022.
Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Friday, June 14, 2024, at the Pape Funeral Home where a Rose Croix service will take place at 7:00 PM. A graveside service will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 15th, at Oakland Cemetery. The family requests that memorials be made to the American Heart Association. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com.
Bonita
I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad. I didn’t know him, but he sounds like a great person. I know that he must have been proud of you. Praying for you and your family.
I am so sorry that Bruce is gone, I loved him. I just wish I knew what happened. We had a nice time and I will never forget him. Prayers for all his loved ones.
My sympathies go out to Bonita, Brynjar and your families. There were many memories made on North 3rd st. Prayers of peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Bruce and Barbra were why I was able to join Eastern Star. He was a good man, and always kind to me and my family. He was a good mason brother and friend to my dad. Condolences to Bonita and Brynjar.
Bruce was a very friendly face in the neighborhood. There was no one he wasn’t having a conversation with! He will be missed. Prayers and hugs to his children.
Bruce started most of our CHS track meets when I was coaching in the 1980s and the 1990s. He did a find job of starting the races and also of “moving along” the events efficiently. Hello to Bonita! Great photo of your Dad!