Bruce D. Polette

1956 - 2004

SALEM, Ore. - Bruce Polette, 47, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Jan. 17, 2004, after a brave five-month battle with esophageal cancer.

He was born in Missoula to Gene and Marian (Peery) Polette and attended public schools in Missoula. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1971 and won the Montana State AA Heavyweight Wrestling Championship in 1974, capping an undefeated season. He attended the University of Wyoming in Laramie on a wrestling scholarship.

In 1980, Bruce transferred to the new Bon Marche in Salem, Ore., where he met the love of his life, Mary Jo Singkofer. They were married in Corvallis, Ore., on Aug. 15, 1981.

Bruce was custodial supervisor for Marion County for 14 years, and retired as custodial supervisor for Western Oregon State University in August 2003.

He and Mary Jo purchased an old home on four beautiful, timbered acres south of Salem and spent many happy years remodeling until they had almost finished their dream home. Fence and barn additions continue to shelter nearly 50 llamas and alpacas.

Other favorite pastimes included seafood buffets and world travel. Swimming with the stingrays off Grand Cayman Island was the highlight of his travels.

Bruce is survived by his wife Mary Jo; his mother Marian and sister Linda (John) Traver of Missoula; brothers Tom (Julie) of Billings and Ted (Ronna) of Helena; sister-in-law Catherine Walker of Anaheim, Calif.; step-mom-in-law Elizabeth Singkofer of Cheyenne, Wyo.; nine nieces and nephews; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, all of whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father Gene; infant brother, Charley; and niece Gina Traver.

Memorial services were held in Salem.

Cards may be sent to the Polette Family, 3320 Terrace Drive, Missoula, MT 59803. In honor of Bruce's deep love for animals, contributions may be made to The Morris Animal Foundation, 45 Inverness Drive E., Englewood, CO 80112-5480.