He told us not to cry, but we did anyway.
He told us he didn’t want an obituary, but clearly, we broke that rule as well.
Bruce LeRoy Clements lived life on his own terms, so he’s got to be a little proud that he’s passed that on to his family.
He didn’t want us to share that he was a talented baritone, a falconer, that he spent 32 years as a Salt Lake County Deputy Sheriff, or about the lives he saved and the lives he blessed.
He didn’t think it worth mentioning that he attended the graveside services of hundreds of military veterans and local law enforcement to stand at attention and display a flag in honor of their service.
Bruce passed peacefully on October 20, 2021 in the tender care of his sisters.
Born March 25, 1944 to George Lauren Clements and Eudora Fowler, he leaves behind his sisters Julie (Scott) Steenblik, and Jennifer (Paul) Cahoon as well as his daughter April James and son Michael Clements. His 5 granddaughters are honored to have the most “Bad Ass” Grandpa around.
We weren’t supposed to have any services, but… a Celebration of Life will be held on November 10, 2021, from 1:00-2:30pm at the Utah Veterans Memorial Park Chapel, 17111 South 1700 West, Bluffdale, because it’s only fitting and because he’s worth the effort, whether he believed it or not. Wear your leather, your denim, or whatever makes you happy because he wants us to be happy. Burial to take place at a later date.
In leu of flowers, do a good deed, drink a coke, take a ride on a motorcycle, or thank a Veteran for their service.
Bruce is a true hero! A private man of few words. Everyone that made efforts to know him, loved him. He is unique! He loved his family, his children & grandchildren, his parents & twin sisters. He spent the last few weeks with us in our home, & it was a great pleasure to do for him what he could no longer do for himself. He will be missed. His memory, will be treasured!
We look forward to celebrating his life with all of you who loved him!!! R Scott S.
Just yesterday I was looking through an Olympus High class of ‘62 reunion book and when I came across Bruce’s name I remembered how I’d had a crush on him in jr, high when we both played in the orchestra. He played the flute and I was a cellist. When we returned after summer break he was sporting a silver cap on a finger to replace the tip he’d lost in an encounter with a lawn mower. Condolences to all his family and friends. Though he’s no longer here, he’ll live on in my memories and those of many others.
It was early April 2006. I had just joined The Patriot Guard Riders and was going to my 1st mission.
I had know idea of what to expect.
I went to a restaurant before the mission to have coffee and meet the ride captain. I walked in and saw two people sitting at a table. The PGR members were easy to spot as I went up to their table.
They were all dressed up in motorcycle attire with leathers and black vests that had patches and metal pins all over them.
I introduced myself and sat down with them, and ordered a cup of coffee. The ride captain was Bruce, he seemed like a likeable guy, easy to talk to.
I told Bruce I didn't ride a Harley, I had a Honda Goldwing, he abruptly stopped me in mid sentence and said in a gruff voice " I doesn't matter what kind of bike you ride, the most important thing is that you are here to honor a fallen veteran".
That was what I liked the most about Bruce, he was serious about his missions, and demanded that everyone that showed up, gave their upmost respect and gratitude to the fallen heroes.
I got to know Bruce very well over the years and we got along just fine on the many missions we attended together.
He was a honorable man, and it was a pleasure to know him.
He will be sorely missed.
Rest Easy Bruce, you have earned it.
Bruce was one of my first area partners with the SO when I hit the road in the mid 90s. He liked to mess with the new Deputies by seeing if they would take any guff from him or give it right back. Those who held their own quickly found a good friend and mentor, as I did. Thanks, Bruce, for all the guidance and friendship throughout my career and I'll look for you still holding a flag welcoming those who served when my day comes. Until then, peace.