Bruce H. Witwer Jr., 74, of Long Branch, Texas, passed away peacefully in Cypress, Texas, on August 9, 2025 with his wife by his side and surrounded by love.

Born December 23, 1950, in Auburn, California, to Bruce H. Witwer, Sr. and Stellaverne Witwer, Bruce was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Before finishing Yuba City high school, Bruce enlisted in the United States Army. After graduation he then served as a flight engineer on CH-47 Chinook helicopters in Vietnam. His time in the service not only shaped his strong character and enduring work ethic, but also forged lifelong friendships - one of which eventually led Bruce and his wife to retire in East Texas many decades later.

After returning home, Bruce married his high school sweetheart, Kathleen A. Witwer (née Amarel), on June 27, 1971. Together, he went on to pursue higher education and graduated from Chico State University in 1975. They built a loving home, first in California, then in Allen, Texas after moving there in 1985.

Bruce approached life with enthusiasm and curiosity, diving wholeheartedly into every hobby he pursued. Over the years, his passions included guns, photography, golf, oil painting, Ford Mustangs and most recently, collecting vintage Ford Model A cars.

In 2016, Bruce and Kathy retired full-time to a quiet piece of land in East Texas. Their home became a welcoming place for friends and family alike. Bruce truly loved having people visit—whether for a few hours or a few days, he was happiest sharing stories, showing off his latest projects, and enjoying the simple joy of good company. He also made frequent road trips to see family and friends in California, Washington, and beyond, making sure that distance never kept relationships from thriving.

Bruce is preceded in death by his parents, Bruce H. Witwer, Sr. and Stellaverne Witwer; his sister, Iyla Johnson; and his half-brothers George Dusek and Dal Dusek. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Kathy; daughter Traci Leslie and her husband, Brian, with their children Witlie, Stella, and Veronica; son Bruce J. Witwer and his wife, Melissa, with their daughters Madison and Leah; brother Todd Witwer and his wife, Deana, and family; sister Jennie Arechar and her husband, Anthony, and family; as well as numerous extended family members and dear friends who will carry his memory forward.

Bruce will be cremated and interred at Sutter Cemetery in Sutter, California. A memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate his remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Bruce to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (https://t2t.org/) or St, Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/)