Bruce J Trusock Md; Obituary, Death: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Bruce J. Trusock, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, and a distinguished physician who touched the lives of many throughout his career. Bruce passed away peacefully at his home in Houghton, Michigan, on January 15, 2025, at the age of 75. His remarkable legacy is defined not only by his professional achievements but also by his kindness, humility, and deep love for his family.
Bruce was born on October 4, 1949, in Houghton, Michigan, to John and Eleanor Trusock. He grew up with a passion for sports, academics, and service to others—values that would shape his entire life. As a child, Bruce was known for his athleticism, his drive for excellence, and his strong sense of responsibility. His parents, who supported him in every endeavor, instilled in him the importance of hard work, perseverance, and compassion for others.
Bruce attended Houghton High School, where he excelled both in the classroom and on the football field. His talent and determination caught the attention of Michigan Technological University (Michigan Tech), where he earned a scholarship to play football for the Michigan Tech Huskies. From 1970 to 1973, Bruce had a truly outstanding career in college football as an offensive center.
His leadership and skill on the field were a major factor in the success of the team during his tenure. A three-time All-Northern Intercollegiate Conference (NIC) selection (1971, 1972, 1973), Bruce helped the Huskies achieve two first-place finishes in the NIC (1970, 1972) and two second-place finishes (1971, 1973). The team achieved a remarkable record of 29-7-1 during Bruce’s four years on the field. His passion for the game, combined with his innate leadership ability, made him an integral part of the Huskies’ success.
In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Bruce was a dedicated student who demonstrated a deep commitment to his studies. He earned the prestigious Omer LaJeunesse Award for scholastic achievement three times during his time at Michigan Tech, a testament to his dedication to balancing academics with the demands of athletics. His hard work in the classroom earned him a spot on the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-America First Team in his senior year.
His ability to excel both in athletics and academics made him a model for his peers, and he was highly respected by professors, teammates, and fellow students alike. After completing his football career, Bruce continued to pursue his education with the same drive and discipline that he had applied to his athletic career. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree and began a long and successful career in medicine, specializing in internal medicine.
Bruce’s compassion for others and his intellectual curiosity drove him to provide exceptional care to his patients throughout his career. He believed deeply in the value of listening to his patients, understanding their needs, and delivering care that not only addressed physical concerns but also nurtured the emotional and psychological well-being of his patients. Bruce’s career as a physician was not just defined by his medical expertise, but also by his ability to connect with his patients.
He was known for his deep empathy, his clear communication, and his dedication to treating the whole person. Over the years, he became a trusted and beloved doctor to countless individuals and families. He was deeply committed to the Houghton community, and his impact was felt not just in his medical practice but also in the many volunteer roles he held, from participating in health education programs to supporting local initiatives that sought to improve the well-being of the residents of the Upper Peninsula.
In his personal life, Bruce was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He married his college sweetheart, Joanne (Smith) Trusock, in 1975, and the two shared a beautiful life together filled with love, adventure, and mutual respect. Bruce was a dedicated father to their two children, Sarah and David, and he took great joy in supporting their pursuits, whether academic, athletic, or personal.
He was a strong role model for them, teaching them the importance of hard work, kindness, and giving back to the community. As a grandfather, Bruce found immense joy in spending time with his grandchildren, Lily, Max, and Jack. He loved taking them on adventures, sharing stories from his youth, and teaching them the same values that had shaped his life. His grandchildren were a source of pride and happiness, and he cherished the time he spent with them.
Bruce also enjoyed a variety of hobbies and interests in his free time. He was an avid golfer, spending many weekends on the links with friends and family. He loved the outdoors, and whether he was hiking in the nearby woods, fishing in the rivers of the Upper Peninsula, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon on his deck, he found peace in nature. Bruce had a deep appreciation for the arts, particularly classical music, and he was known to enjoy attending local concerts and performances.
He also found joy in traveling, often seeking new destinations with Joanne and his family, sharing those experiences with those closest to him. Bruce’s life was defined by a commitment to excellence, a genuine care for others, and a passion for the things he loved. Whether on the football field, in the hospital, or at home with his family, he approached everything with integrity and a positive attitude. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him—an example of how to live a life filled with purpose, love, and service to others.
Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Joanne Trusock; his children, Sarah (Jason) Trusock-Davis and David (Emily) Trusock; his grandchildren, Lily, Max, and Jack; his sister, Debbie (Paul) Schofield; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eleanor Trusock.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Houghton, Michigan, on January 20, 2025, at the Houghton Community Center at 2:00 PM. The family will receive guests beginning at 1:00 PM. In keeping with Bruce’s wishes, the service will be a joyful celebration of his life, with stories, music, and moments of reflection that honor the legacy he leaves behind.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bruce’s memory to the Houghton Area Hospital Foundation or the Michigan Tech Athletic Department, both of which were near to his heart. Contributions can be made online or at the service.
Bruce’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who provided excellent care over the years. Your support meant the world to us. Rest in peace, Dr. Bruce J. Trusock. Your life will be remembered and cherished by all who knew you
