BRUCE HAMMON

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we remember Bruce Hammon, who left this world on September 25, 2025, at the age of 73, at his home in Oregon. Born in Burke, South Dakota, to Ralph and Irene (Meyer) Hammon, Bruce’s life was a beautiful journey shaped by curiosity, eagerness to learn, and a deep appreciation for nature.

After graduating from Cambridge High School in 1970 and earning a doctorate, he dedicated his career to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.

Bruce’s work reflected his lifelong devotion to protecting the environment, but it was his love of nature that truly defined him.

On November 4, 1970, Bruce married Susan Brooks in Cambridge, Nebraska.

Although their paths later diverged in 1987, they shared many meaningful years and raised their daughter together. In the years that followed, Bruce found companionship and joy with Dee Willis, with whom he shared 13 loving years. His true soulmate, however, was his German Shorthair sidekick Bodhi, who never disagreed with him and always thought he was the smartest man alive (as long as treats were involved). Bruce and Bodhi spent countless hours walking trails, watching wildlife, and keeping each other company — though Bodhi likely led most of the conversations.

Bruce found happiness in simple pleasures— walking in nature for miles with his dog Bodhi, watching wildlife cross his path, listening to the calls of birds, or sharing a favorite song with someone he loved.

In the last years of his life, you could often find him still by the pond watching the wildlife for hours, and he often shared stories of how nature kept him in awe.

He is lovingly remembered by his brothers, LeRoy (Ina) Hammon and Larry (Germaine) Hammon; his daughter, Lisa (David) Guthrie; grandchildren, Derek Gosh, Darian (Nicholas) Killian, DeLaina Wulf, Dalton Wulf, and Drake Guthrie; and his nephew Brian Hammon, who was as dear to him as a son.

Bruce also leaves behind many friends and family who will forever cherish his stories, his music, and his laughter.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Irene Hammon; his former wife, Susan; and his brother, Merle Hammon.

A private memorial service will be held later, honoring Bruce’s wishes for cremation.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions to Oregon Wild at oregonwild.org, so Bruce’s lifelong love of nature can continue to inspire others.