Bruce L. Silgjord

Bruce Leonard Silgjord, 64-year-old resident of rural Motley, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at his home. An open celebration of life for Bruce will be held at the Bingo Park Community Center located at 531 River Road. Randall, MN from 2 PM to 6 PM on Saturday, April 26, 2025. A private burial will be held by the family at a later date. Caring for Bruce and his family is the LeMieur Funeral Home in Little Falls, MN. Bruce was born on March 27, 1961, in Little Falls, MN, to the late Brian and Barbara Silgjord (Ringwelski). Bruce attended Motley High School and later attended Brainerd Area Technical Institute. Bruce was united in marriage to Lori Ann Silgjord (Rittenhouse) on February 1, 1983. After his schooling, Bruce spent more than 30 years working for the State of Minnesota. Early in his career, he worked as a Grain Inspector for the Department of Agriculture and a Security Officer for the Department of Military Affairs at Camp Ripley. Though he spent the majority of his career working for the Department of Corrections as a Sentence to Serve (STS) crew leader. During his tenure, he worked out of the Sherburne, Benton, Beltrami, and Crow Wing County areas. Bruce took significant pride in the many community projects he and his assigned crews assisted with over the years. Bruce undoubtedly dedicated his life of service to others, both in his community as well as his family. His guidance and leadership were often the glue that bonded his family together and his giving heart was second to none. He was known for his ability to bring reason and peace during uncertain times to all those close to him. With the innate ability to strike up a conversation with just about anyone, Bruce was fond of learning the stories of all those he encountered. He was a genuine listener and looked for commonality with anyone he interacted with. Those who knew him best, knew he was a gifted conversationalist and was well versed in the traditional Minnesota goodbye. He also made sure anyone who visited his home felt welcome and were well fed; few could contend with his ability to whip up some “ham sammies” in short order. During his life, he was passionate about the outdoors and made a point to spend time hunting, fishing, and camping with Lori and his three sons. He especially enjoyed teaching life skills to his sons and grandchildren. Bruce was a skilled arborist and was quite proud of his ability to run a chainsaw like a finely tuned instrument. Early in his life, he put those skills to use logging with his father-in-law, Robert Rittenhouse, with whom he shared a special bond. In his later years, Bruce enjoyed spending time with his sons and grandchildren, chatting with his siblings, planning for future projects, and honing his puttering skills. Bruce truly enjoyed being up to date on all the latest world events and the latest Twins stats, of which he would share with passion in daily updates to others. He also found an affinity for simple yard work and a good campfire. Bruce was preceded in death by his parents. Left to cherish Bruce’s memory are his wife, Lori and sons, Justin (Melissa) of Hillman, MN, Brandon (Laci) of Sartell, MN and Caleb (Stephanie) of Grey Eagle, MN; grandchildren, Coulter, Gabriel, Eastin, Michaela, Harper and Liam; siblings, Bryan, Brad, Barb, and Brenda; mother-in-law Jean Rittenhouse. We love you Pops, you will be missed, forever and always!

Tributes

Bruce L. Silgjord

March 27, 1961 - April 10, 2025