Bruce Ryan York

Bruce Ryan York, 43, of Ames, Iowa, passed from this earth on Thursday, July 6, 2023. A Celebration of Life for Bruce will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 11, at the Country Cathedral, 1956 Durham Avenue in State Center, Iowa.

Bruce was born on June 3, 1980 in Marshalltown, Iowa. He was the son of Barry (Tami) York and Jennifer Maxfield. Bruce graduated from West Marshall High School in 1998, where he was a 2nd team All-State football player and a wrestler. He then continued his athletic passions at Simpson College. Bruce began learning his family trade of carpentry almost from birth, taught by his father and grandfather, Ben York. He was a master craftsman and master woodsmith who could build anything.

Bruce loved Jesus and he truly had a heart of compassion for people. He was always full of affirmations, encouragement, and truth. Bruce relied upon the indwelling of Christ to be his strength and hope. He walked by faith, not by sight. All who had the blessing of knowing him knew he was a gentle giant and peace maker. We are confident, when the Lord took him home, he said, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

Bruce’s greatest joy was his son, Samson. He was a devoted father who had a profound understanding of how precious little time we get with our children. He took every opportunity to spend time with, teach, build up, and speak words of life to his son. They liked to play games, read books, watch Star Wars, and go camping together.

Bruce enjoyed spending time with people. He liked to play just about any kind of game; but his favorite games were strategy games. He loved sitting by a campfire. Bruce was always a good listening ear for anyone who needed to talk. He was a protector and defender who sought justice, loved mercy, and walked humbly with the Lord God. Bruce trusted the Lord to protect and provide for those left behind to cherish his memory.

Bruce is survived by his seven year old son: Samson Arley York, spouse: Jenell York, father: Barry (Tami) York, mother: Jennifer Maxfield, sister: Renae (Jason) Rudkin, brother: Benjamin York, and grandmother: Carolyn York. His nieces and nephews: Katrina, Marissa, Daniel, and Lance Lindemann, Aly Rudkin, and Bennett York. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Bruce is preceded in death by his grandparents: Ben York, Norma Counter, and Alberta Coleman. His step-father: Al Maxfield, and grandfather-in-law: Richard Suchomel.

Memorials may be directed to the family. They plan to use them for a trust fund for his son, Samson, and a portion will be donated to the school Bruce helped build on a mission trip to Guatemala.