Richard August Bruins

Richard August Bruins passed away on the morning of April 27th, 2021 in his home of 44 years. He spent his last days surrounded by what he called his “Parade of Love” - Waves of family and friends whose lives he touched over his eight decades on earth - Evidence of a life well-lived. He would best describe his 80 years of life as simple, great, and blessed. He believed we are a product of the choices we make - how we live and the vocations we choose - and lived without regret as he admits to choosing experience over education early in life.

He joined the United States Navy in 1959, right after completing high school. After bootcamp, he served for a total of 6 years, spending time both on the U.S.S. Intrepid and the U.S.S. Enterprise. He reflected often that one of his favorite experiences during his time in the Navy was to see the aircraft carriers set course for the sea without the planes, then watching the aircraft fly in and land on board. He also had the opportunity to march in the Aquatennial parade with his unit. He was being discharged from his first tour of active duty and while waiting for his plane at the New York airport, was called back into service prior to the US Cuban blockade; during this mission, he served on the command carrier as third in command. He was officially discharged from the Navy on June 3, 1965. His love for his country and his heart of service, though, continued throughout the remainder of his life.

“I knew who I was going to marry. The story that brought us together - through our mother’s friendship - proves that God works in so many different ways.” Richard’s mother, Helen, is the one who encouraged him to meet Patricia, the daughter of her friend Nora. The pair went on their first date April 17, 1961, and the rest is history. While he was away at sea he would send Trish frequent letters. Some of the signature sentiments he wrote were “SWAK” (sealed with a kiss), to which he would add “which I will fix when I get home” and “TSTSTSA” which translated to “To someone too sweet to sleep alone.” On April 29, 1962, on a short one-day leave, Richard proposed to Pat. They were married June 29, 1963 at St. Raphael's Church in Crystal, MN. One of their most memorable experiences together later in life was traveling to Virginia and seeing the fantail of the ship where he wrote all the letters to his sweetheart.

Over the years, Richard held various jobs, oftentimes taking on second jobs as a way to provide and create experiences for his family, including camping trips and other road trip vacations. The longest position he held was with ONAN where he worked for 38 years before retiring. His favorite role, however, was working on the security detail for Minnesota Gopher and Viking sporting events. Who wouldn’t like a front row seat working in the endzone where the winning touchdown was scored during the Minneapolis Miracle game, or to work during a Super Bowl week of events!?

Richard will always be remembered as the ultimate sports fan. He participated in bowling and softball leagues while at ONAN, but also served as a basketball referee and baseball umpire for the Knights of Columbus Youth Organization. He proudly supported Minnesota sport’s teams, as well as the UCLA Bruins, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and Duke Blue Devils. He now has a forever spot outside the U.S. Bank Stadium where you can find his Legacy Brick.

Although a devout fan of sports in general, he was an even greater fan and cheerleader of his grandkids. Pride would beam from his deep blue eyes when he would attend athletic events, concerts, and award or graduation ceremonies. Enjoying the blessings of his grandkids and great-grandkids, each and every one of them, were what brought him the greatest joy, he said.

Not only has he left an imprint on the lives of his grand- (and great-grand) children, but also the students and children he has met along the way. His ministry to youth was seen in volunteering for Contact, where high school kids would meet with him for mentorship and encouragement. And of course, he touched countless lives of kids and adults alike in his role as Santa Claus. His Santa visits to the local nursing and assisted living homes brightened the days of many.  The magic of the season radiated from every “ho, ho, ho” as he shared the hope, love and peace of Jesus while in his father-in-law’s antique suit. A special experience over the last several years was playing Santa under the glimmer of lights at Hope Lights Christmas display.

Lifelong friends were made along the way through attending and volunteering at St. Raphael's Parish, attending and planning Marriage Encounter conferences, and being an active member of the Knights of Columbus where he held various positions throughout the years including Vocational chair and Acting Grand Knight. He had a heart for people in general and was the epitome of chivalry and patriotism. His love of God, family and country were proudly worn and expressed as a badge of honor.

In his final days Richard said: “If you look back at all the special memories in your life it would flash by.” He felt that life was not meant to be easy - but it was meant to be lived - and wow, did he live it to the fullest. In reflection he stated, “Who gets married at 22 and 20?” Who’s fortunate enough to start a family at that young age and who’s fortunate to see the ups and downs and struggles and joys and grandkids and great grandkids. My gosh, it’s been a good life.”

Over the last year he has fought multiple medical issues, but showed his resilience and courage by fighting to the very end living “one day at a time.” In his last days he expressed how fortunate he was to have God’s strength to get through it all because it was not easy. Although in pain, he came out as he always does, as our brave hero.

Richard is survived by his wife of over 57 years, Patricia Bruins. Children: Elizabeth (Steven), Colleen (Allen), Paul (Roxana), Megan (Jon). Grandchildren: Nadia, Amanda (Jordan), Tiana, Joshua (Brittany), Madeline (Logan), Trevor (Kaitlyn), Melissa, Lydia (Matthew), Austin, Jacob, Chase, Melanie, Noah, Simon, Hannah, Grace, Jeremiah, Matthew. Great-grandchildren: Curtiss, Landon, Elliott, Sebastian, Aurora, Mikayla, Charlotte, Saylor. Siblings: Mary Schmitz and Jim (Jeannine) Roufs. As well as a multitude of beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

“It was a simple good life and that is what I’m blessed with. And you guys are a part of that and for that I thank you...Love ya bunches”

Visitation  Monday, May 24, 4-7:30 PM  (KC rosary at  7:30 PM)  at Gearty-Delmore Plymouth Chapel,  15800 37th Ave N @ Vicksburg Lane.  Please sign up to attend the visitation HERE .

Mass of Christian Burial  11 AM Tuesday, May 25 , at The Church of St. Raphael,  7301 Bass Lake Rd. , Crystal.  Interment St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Maple Grove.