Larry Gene Bruders

Larry was born in Libertyville, Iowa on June 22nd, 1931 to Wilhelm Ludwig Karl Bruders and Lucretia Lily Bruders (Martin). He grew up with 2 older and 3 younger siblings, Vivian, Jennie, Joyce, Peggy and Jim. The family moved to Fairfield, Missouri for a short time and then to Sedro-Woolley, Washington where Larry attended school prior to joining the Air Force and then the Marine Corps during the Korean War.

He served with distinction and was honorably discharged. Using the skills he learned in the military, he then went to Alaska to work on radar/communication equipment before returning to the Seattle area where he met and soon married Joanne Louise Harpster in Tacoma, Washington on June 15th, 1968. The family relocated to Portland, Oregon where they raised Judy Lynn Staples and Paul Andrew Bruders. He continued his career as an automotive electrician for many years before being forced into retirement due to health issues.

Larry loved to mentor young children and coached many softball and baseball teams as well as volunteering as an umpire for both sports. He enjoyed watching the Seattle Mariners and Seattle Seahawks.

He was such a lovable and positive person with an endearing sense of humor that made it easy for him to make friends. Everywhere he went he would smile and strike up a conversation with those around him. All children lovingly referred to him as “Papa”.

Larry is survived by his wife of almost 50 years; Joanne, his children; Judy and Paul, grandchildren; Alexa, Emily, Cora, Elyse and LilyAnn, great-grandchild Nylah and siblings Peggy and Jim.

A memorial service will be held and Fairlawn Village community center at 1:00 pm on Good Friday, March 30th, 2018. The graveside service, military honors and internment will be at Willamette National Cemetery at 11:00 am on Wednesday, April 4th, 2018.

The family would like to thank the staff of Fairlawn Village for all of their support and kindness during his convalescence and this time of grief.

Isaiah 40:31 “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”