Bruce Gene Brant passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, on Saturday, January 24, 2026. He was born in Wichita, Kansas, in December 1947 to Lewis and Barbara Brant.Bruce was raised in Longview and graduated from R.A. Long High School Class of 1966, where he excelled as an athlete and went on to become the state high school wrestling champion in the 130-pound class during his senior year. He was the first Lumberjack wrestler to achieve such an honor in more than a decade.After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and served honorably in Vietnam. He was wounded in action and received both the Silver Star and the Purple Heart in recognition of his courage and sacrifice.Bruce began his working life at a local lumber company before spending many years as a long-haul truck driver. He took pride in the independence of the road and in the steady, hard work required.  Cheryn, his wife, joined him on the road for a while, sharing long days, early mornings, and the quiet beauty of the highway.From an early age, Bruce developed a deep love of fishing. His mother often recalled him, at just four years old, finishing breakfast and then sitting on the curb waiting for daylight so he could head to the slough. As he grew older, that passion only deepened--he was known to skip school if it meant getting a few more hours with a fishing pole in his hand.Bruce is survived by his wife, Cheryn; his children Brian, Donica, and Neil; and his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Christopher, and his sister, Vicky. Bruce and Cheryn first dated in high school, then life took them in different directions. After 30 years apart, they reunited and married on Valentine's Day 2004. They were blessed with 22 years together. Cheryn said, "The years we shared were a gift, and his strength, kindness, and love will remain with me always. He will be deeply missed".Please join us for a Celebration of Life for Bruce on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Rose Valley Grange, 1520 Rose Valley Road, Kelso, WA.  A potluck reception will follow. If you’d like to contribute, please bring a dish to share.