Bruce Binder

Bruce Ronald Binder

Bruce was born in Chicago, Illinois September 7, 1943 and passed away surrounded by his family on August 30, 2011 at his home in Roy, Washington.

Family was Bruce’s greatest treasure and he touched the lives of so many dear friends. Bruce’s career was in the transportation industry, retiring from Gordon Trucking, Inc. as their Director of Safety where he was very active in various state and federal safety associations. He was instrumental in developing the Homeward Bound program with the Washington State Patrol, which brought numerous missing children home safely. Bruce lived his life to the fullest, never allowing his medical challenges in recent years interfere with his love of life. Hobbies included hunting, traveling, horseback riding, collecting classic cars and he was a member of the King’s Men car club in Tacoma. He enjoyed spending time on his farm with his many animals and everyone looked forward to his annual barn party.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Viola Binder, also his wife Gale.

He is dearly loved and survived by his wife, Cathryn, children Tami Zehnder (Joe), Brent Binder (Sue) and Layle Teddy (Travis), grandchildren Kylie, Lauren, Dylan, Emma, Nicholas and Jordan. Mother in law, Martha Ames, brother and sister in law, Mike and Elaine Ames. Bruce’s nephew, David Ames, was very special to his heart. He will be missed by his faithful German Shepherd dog, Ruger, who was always at his side.

At Bruce’s request, there are no public services. A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at Kelly Farm, 20021 Old Sumner Buckley Highway, Bonney Lake, WA 98391 Sunday, September 18, 2011 from 2 until 5 p.m.

Our family would like to thank Dr. Andrea Rose and the staff of Northwest Medical Specialties for their years of dedication to him.

Remembrances can be made in Bruce’s honor to the Washington State Patrol Homeward Bound Program or the Washington State Patrol Trooper Training Academy in care of Gordon Trucking, Inc., attn: Human Resources, 151 Stewart Road S.W., Pacific, WA 98047.