Bruce Kirkpatrick

Bruce McIntyre Kirkpatrick died at his home July 16, 2013 after a brief and sudden illness at age 79. He had been a Durango resident since 1967. Bruce was born in Topeka, KS on December 27, 1933. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hazen Leon Kirkpatrick and Clarice Privott Kirkpatrick, and former spouse, Mignon Hirsch Kirkpatrick. After graduating with a degree in Civil Engineering from Kansas University, Bruce served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1958. He worked extensively in the Middle East and Africa, living with his wife Mignon in Bagdad, Tehran, London, Johannesburg, and other locations. He was saddened that many of the structures he designed in the Middle East were later destroyed by wars in these tumultuous regions. He moved his family to Denver to commence law school at Denver University in 1965. After graduation, the family moved to Durango where he worked in the District Attorney’s Office and began a private practice. Beginning in the 1970’s he owned and operated Raisebor Inc., a local company which drilled large diameter raises and shafts in mines worldwide. In addition to his long engineering and law careers, he raised hay on his farm east of Durango. He and his wife Vicki worked long hours keeping the farm productive, attractive, and comfortable. For recreation, he enjoyed skiing, boating with friends on Lake Powell, and traveling. He diligently worked on solving the world’s problems over his morning coffee at the Durango Diner and his afternoon meetings with “the brothers.” He was a generous man who was always willing to help a neighbor or a friend. He is survived by his four children, David Kirkpatrick (Trish) of Durango, Allison Colwell (Grant) of Scottsdale, AZ, Sarah Marbach (Don) of Scottsdale, AZ, Margot O’Donnal (Jeff) of Chandler, AZ and his brother, Dr. Charles Kirkpatrick (Janice) of Denver. He is additionally survived by 8 grandchildren, Natalie and Everett Kirkpatrick, Mackenzie and Zoe Colwell, Justine and Jake Marbach, and Shelby and Ryan O’Donnal. He is also survived by his former wife, Vicki L. Kirkpatrick of Durango. Bruce had a very wry sense of humor. One of his favorite things to say when asked how he was doing was, “I’m above ground.” Dad, we love you and will miss you! Please bring your favorite “Brucisim”, and join us in a celebration of his life on July 27, 2013 at 4pm at the Edgemont Picnic Grounds. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Elks Scholarship fund or Mercy Hospice.