Bruce Brainard, 80, Ada, MN, died Sunday, March 1, 2015, at his Green Valley, AZ home, under the care of his family and hospice.

Bruce was born on a farm near Detroit Lakes, MN, on May 16, 1934, the only child of John "Jack" W. and Francis "Babe" (Nasset) Brainard. He grew up doing chores on their farm that developed his strong work ethic and the value of being frugal. He graduated from Detroit Lakes High School in 1952 and then went to the University of Minnesota where he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. While attending the U of M he met a young woman on a tennis court named Barbara Jean Klay. They were united in marriage on December 28, 1956, in Orange City, Iowa. Bruce served his country in the Army Reserves stationed in Arkansas before moving to Kansas City, MO where Bruce worked for Pillsbury. In the summer of 1962, Bruce accepted the position of County Executive Director for the Norman County ACSC in Ada, MN. Bruce was a dedicated civil servant for 35 years making sure that the farmers were well served by various USDA programs that were administrated by the Norman County ACSC office.

Bruce enjoyed crossword puzzles and taking his dog out for a walk. He also liked to hobby farm on the weekends and after work that turned into Black Bell Farms that was later operated by his two sons. After retiring, Bruce enjoyed being the "Field Marshall" on the farm overseeing the planting and harvesting operations.

In retirement Bruce and Barb migrated to their winter home in Green Valley, AZ, where they met many good friends and neighbors. They enjoyed playing cards, golfing, and hiking in Madera Canyon.

Bruce is survived by his wife of over 58 years, Barbara; son John (Janet); grandchildren: John "Jack", Julia, and Jared, all of Ada, son Joe (Liz); Twin Valley, MN, grandchildren: Bethany (Hari) and Jordan, both of Fargo, ND, Jacob; San Antonio, TX, and Joseph at home. Bruce was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved dog, Fred.

Bruce's family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the Carondelet Hospice of Tucson, AZ, and to Pastor Ken Nyhusmoen of Green Valley, for their care and compassion during the last days of Bruce's life.

Memorial Service: 11:00AM, Thursday, March 26, 2015, at Grace Lutheran Church, Ada, MN.

Visitation: One hour before the service at the church.

Burial: Ada Municipal Cemetery, Ada, MN.