Bruce Frederic Bird

Bruce Frederic Bird was born in Kansas City, Kansas on June 13,1937 to Chauncey and Louise Bird. He graduated from Turner High School in 1955 and from The University of Kansas School of Engineering in 1964.  

He was married to Roberta Sue Kuebler on February 20, 1960. They built their first home in Kansas City, Kansas next door to his parents where he was raised. In 1968 they built a home one block South into Shawnee, KS. He lived in Shawnee, KS for the rest of his life. 

In 1962 he and his wife began attending Hope Lutheran Church where they were youth counselors for the Walther League and enjoyed singing in the choir. For a brief time, he was the Scoutmaster, later serving in many other roles in the church. 

In 1968 he became a Square Dance Caller and with Roberta also taught Round Dancing. Most of his time calling was in the local area, but he called and taught in places as far away as Saudi Arabia, England and Switzerland. 

He collected antique hand-start John Deere tractors. With the help of family and friends they were driven in several Old Shawnee Days parades. After the parades he would display them at Old Shawnee Town, where people of all ages climbed into the seats or cranked on the fly wheels in an attempt to start them. 

Bruce was a Civil Engineer and Land Surveyor. He opened Bird Engineering, P.A in 1983. He loved his work, looking forward to Monday as much as Friday, never considering it work. 

He worked hard so he could enjoy his time off which often involved traveling. He loved to go on trips with his wife annually celebrating their anniversary. Over the years they traveled to all 50 state capitals. They went on many cruises and adventures with church and square dance friends. 

Bruce loved being a Grandfather and being actively involved in their lives. The highlight of every year was the family trip exploring, learning and enjoying time together.  

Bruce passed from his earthly home to his heavenly home on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2024. He is survived by his beloved wife, Roberta, children: Timothy Bird (Cyndi), Cynthia Riddell (Chris), and Matthew Bird; grandchildren: Melody, Irene (Noah), Nathan, Sadie (Sean), Lilly, Eric, Henry and Eli; brother-in-law Eugene Kuebler (Candy) and many loved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Gerry. 

A visitation and memorial service will be held at Hope Lutheran Church (6308 Quivira Rd. Shawnee, KS 66216) on Friday, January 3, 2025. The visitation will begin at 10:00 AM; the memorial service will follow starting at 11:00. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Bruce’s name to Hope Lutheran Church and School. You may do that online by CLICKING HERE.