Obituaries

March 5, 1957 to March 18, 2012

ROYAL CENTER - Vickie A. Branson Bruce, 55, of Star City passed away at 4:54 p.m., Sunday, March 18, at her residence.

She was born March 5, 1957 in Hammond, the daughter of Carl and Patricia Hurlburt Branson. On March 25, 1983, she married Daniel L. Bruce. He survives.

Also surviving are a son, Robert Bruce (Samantha) and daughter, Dana Marie Gilbert (Bob Reutebuch), all of Star City, mother, Pat Branson of Griffith, brother, Terry L. Branson (Tammy) of New Jersey and father- and mother-in-law, Edward and Donna Gates of Florida. She is also survived by grandchildren, Dorine Lynn, Dylan Cole, Haylee Marie, Lauren Elizabeth and Daniel James and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Carl Leon Branson, brother, Carl Wayne Branson, paternal grandparents, William L. and Blanch N. (Ott) Branson, and maternal grandparents, Lovell J. and Frances C. (Engle) Hurlburt.

Mrs. Bruce was 1975 Graduate of Griffith High School, and earned a degree in interior design in 1977. She later returned to school and graduated from Purdue University in 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in social services. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Winamac, Literacy Partners board of directors and the Indiana Head Start Association.

She dedicated her life to helping others and volunteering with the Relay for Life and Toys for Tots. She also served as Girl Scout Troop leader for 12 years and also worked as a literacy tutor since 1990. She was IPIN Parent Liasion, INSOURCE Regional Parent Advocate and worked at the Pulaski County Head Start, providing services, training and resources to local families since 1990. She was the proud mother of her children and beloved Nana to her grandchildren. She loved spending time with family and friends.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, at the First United Methodist Church, Winamac. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m., (Wednesday, March 21), at the church, with Pastor Matt Landry officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harrison-Metzger & Rans Funeral Homes, 304 S. Chicago St., Royal Center.