Bruce Robert Austin
March 10, 1932 - June 8, 2020
I was born March 10, 1932 in Midvale, Utah to Eva Leone Turner Austin Denning and Raoul Emery Austin. I never knew my father; he died in a traffic accident in 1945. I was raised on my maternal grandparents’ farm in Bluffdale, Utah and graduated from Jordan High School class of 1950.
Married Leora Maren Hemmingsen from Lark, Utah on June 10, 1952 and together we raised three sons in Rose Park.
I worked various jobs until 1955 when, on a whim, I took the exam for the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD). I was accepted on September 10, 1955 and served for over 26 years. I worked in various areas of investigative and patrol assignments attaining the rank of Sargent. I retired from SLCPD in 1982 and accepted a position with Mr. L.S. Skaggs, CEO of American Stores as a chauffeur and bodyguard.
In 1991 I took a job with Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation at the fee station in Millcreek Canyon working summers and spending winters in Mesa, AZ. I retired for good in 2005.
I am survived by my wife Leora, sons: Randy (Gloria), Todd (Colette) and Jedd (Raquel). Four grandchildren: Samantha (Ryan), Chad (Kristen), Sydney and Cy. Our fifth granddaughter Cassidy was lost to a tragic accident in 2001. And two great grandchildren Milo and Weslie.
Since I hated funerals and viewings, there will be none. A family celebration will be held in the meadow at First Water in Millcreek Canyon at a later date.
It was a great life!
Special thanks to the Huntsman Cancer Institute and extra special thanks to the hospice care team at Community Nursing Services (CNS). Joelle, Rita, John, Craig, Clever and Dr. Anna Beck please accept our heartfelt thanks. You are outstanding healthcare providers.
In Loving Memory
To Leora, Randy, Todd, and Jedd, and families. I never figured out how a gentle man such as Bruce, could ever have been a police officer. But that probably made him one of the best kind. He was always so nice when I was around him. I loved talking to him, hearing his stories, and more generally just being around a really nice uncle (even though he is only 10 years older than I am). I have missed seeing each of you and, of course, Bruce. But I will always carry fond memories of all of you. As they say, life goes on. But it will be less rich, less enjoyable without Bruce. I wish all of you the best as you move forward during this difficult time. Cardell Jacobson 801-361-5461
Please accept our condolences on the passing of your husband and to all your siblings on the passing of their father, Bruce and I served on the Slcpd together, without a doubt I have never meet a finer person than your father! He mentored Me while I served in the various divisions. Bruce was a real police officer, and served with Honor ! I will truly miss this amazing man, and I mourn his passing each day! Your family was blessed to have such a great man in your life, may God bless your family in this time of loss. - LT Maurice Brophy, Retired Slcpd
Hearing of Bruce's passing brought me great sadness. My wife Diane and I wish to express our sincere condolences to his wife and family at this most difficult time. While working on the SLCPD I had the extreme honor of working for Bruce at the Glendale precinct. This is where I got to know one of the kindest men I would ever know. His cowboy persona and that kind smile let you know that he was your friend. I have and always will keep Bruce in a special place in my heart. Rest in peace my friend.
Randy and Gloria, so sorry to hear of your fathers passing.Find peace in all the great memories that you have of him.
I was saddened to see Bruce's obituary in the Tribune. I did not know Bruce well, but worked with him for a couple of years in the Circulation Dept of the Newspaper Agency. He was hired to supervise a bunch of us college kids in the department, and he was excellent in that position, and served as a role model for me. I extend my sincere condolences to your family.
May I add my sincere sympathy to that of the many who knew and admired him. He will be long remembered for his steadfast service to his host of friends and to the community. Mac and Roger Connole
So sorry to read your obituary in the paper. We both hate funerals, so why Covid is horrible we can at least pass on the funeral. We both like savory food...olives, oyster stew, deviled eggs. Rest in peace my friend. Mary Atkinson.
Leora , Jedd and family I am so very sorry to learn of Bruce’s passing. So many wonderful memories of knowing you snd Bruce and Jeff and Jedd playing together as young boys. Really great times. I think the example Bruce set helped Jeff to decide to become a police officer with SLCPD. Roberta Webb
Dear Todd, Leora, Randy, Jedd and families. Your Dad is awesome. So many memories I have of spending time at your home, rides to work at the Taco Siesta in the green beetle and his steady demeanor as he calmly guided us through our triumphs and lets say: "learnings". I am happy for your opportunity to have him for so long. I wish you comfort as the sadness of his loss is gradually lost to the joy of his memory and your love for him. I would love to see you Todd. Please email me when you get a chance.
Dear Austin's, I am so sorry to hear about this, my thoughts go way back. Yes before Todd knock out any of my teeth, I guess I deserved it. Todd, Randy and Jedd and your mother, My heart goes out to you. He was as I remember a great man. I didn't know him after I moved, again my fault. But I am sure he didn't change. Hugh
May we extend our sincere sympathy to the wife and family of a friend and fellow officer, Bruce Austin. I had the privilege of working with Bruce on the Salt Lake City Police Department. I am grateful for the example Bruce was to me and all who worked with him. Bruce was a true gentleman with attributes we should follow. May you be blessed with peace and comfort Mel and Sylvia Shields
As others I had the distinct pleasure of working for and with Bruce. He was such a mentor and roll model. I never saw him angry or mad at anyone. Bruce was the consummate professional. I am so sorry for your loss. Know that because of Bruce there are many of us that will carry his memory and professional standard forward.
To Leora and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. We enjoyed your company over the years at the family reunions and surely miss those times. Take care and sending blessings of peace and comfort.
Sending love to the family... Always loved Bruce! I remember him from when I was young, and my cousin reminded me of some wise words Bruce told me once, in his most hilarious way! Great guy...
I will miss my Uncle Bruce! He and Leora were always at the family reunions. I remember the funny stories he would tell and that he was a kind and gentle person. My heartfelt condolences to Leora and family. Kris Jacobson- Carlin’s 2nd daughter
In Loving Memory
