Steven Bruce
1978-2019
Steven David Bruce, Sr., age 40, “Nezhikeshimod” which means “He who Dances Alone,” of Onigum, Minnesota began his journey to the spirit world on Thursday, February 21, 2019 from the Sanford Hospital in Bemidji, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on June 25, 1978 in Bemidji, to Suzanne Bruce and Walter Smith, Sr.
Steven had a heart of gold and was the most unselfish person you could ever meet. He would give you his last dollar or the shirt off his back to help, if you needed it. Steven was very comical and liked making people laugh. His humor was one of a kind and unforgettable. Steven’s favorite past times were going for long walks, swimming and playing basketball. He also enjoyed his beverages now and again. Steven enjoyed hanging out with his family and friends, but he especially loved spending time with his kids.
Family that Steven is reunited with are his parents: Suzanne Bruce and Walter Smith, Sr.; grandparents: Julia and Clinton Bruce; and other family members.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are his children: Steven (Tiana Leecy) Bruce, Jr, Josephine “Josie” (Chase Johnson) Bruce, and Jaymz Bruce all of Cass Lake; special son Michael (Deanna White) Morrison-Reese of Onigum; special granddaughter Tailyah Morrison-Reese; siblings: Dyana (Michael Rice), Julie (Jay Nordmarken) Bruce, Sherry Bruce, Heidi (Doug) Orton, Shirley Taylor, and Walter “Wally” Smith, Jr.; aunties: Kathleen Johnson, Geraldine Hanks, Vicki Bruce, and Ethel Johnson; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and too many friends to list.
A wake for Steven began Sunday, February 24, and continued until his traditional services on Tuesday, February 26, all held at the Onigum Community Center in Onigum. Mike Smith was his Spiritual Advisor. Pallbearers were Dennis Smith, Ron Counoyer, Anthony “Tony” Bushey, Andretti Bushey, Chase Johnson and Michael “Mikey” Rice. His honorary pallbearers were Andros, Andrea, DesMarie, Danny, Andre, Jayden, JaeMarie, Sphira, Arianna, Andreas, Brandon, Courtney, Jasmine, Kyrie, Kiefer, Todd, Jay, Chaskae and Roger “Teets.” A private family inurnment will be held at a later date.
Steven’s care had been entrusted to Northern Peace Funeral Home of Walker. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.northernpeace.com