Bruce Edwin Hogan was born to Joseph Leroy and Glennis Mae (Hightower) Hogan on September 29, 1957 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was welcomed into his eternal heavenly home on July 9, 2013 at the age of 55 years, 9 months, and 10 days. Leroy, Glennis, and their children (Debbie, Bruce, and Denise) moved to Springfield, Missouri in 1959 and eventually settled among their large extended family near Hartville, Missouri in 1969. As a child, Bruce was "all boy," ornery, and liked to aggravate his sisters. Despite this mischievousness, Bruce displayed an endearing charm that made him favored among many. Bruce graduated from Hartville High School in 1975. He worked as an over-the-road truck driver for several years and most recently was employed as a dump truck driver with Journagen Construction in Springfield. From an early age, Bruce was interested in "how things worked" and was a skilled mechanic throughout his life. He always had a passion for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and enjoyed riding with his friends. He was a collector of many things and was fond of old, unique odds and ends. When Bruce entered a room, there was no mistaking his presence! With his large stature and booming voice, he was not afraid to declare his opinion. Bruce never did anything halfway. He often had great stories to tell about his experiences and everyone around him was drawn to his warm, genuine personality. He was blessed with many true lifelong friends. Bruce not only had lots of fun with these friends over the years, but also shared countless meaningful conversations with them, earning the nickname "Hogan the Theologian." Bruce's family was very important to him. At gatherings, the little ones enjoyed climbing up to tickle him and feel his whiskers. He liked ribbing his two sisters and asking, "Ma, where's the gravy?!?" if Glennis didn't have any accompanying the mashed potatoes. He and his dad shared a special bond and many of the same interests and talents. We know they are enjoying their reunion! However, Bruce's pride and joy was his son, Ian Avery Hogan. Ian and his dad liked to deer hunt and watch movies together. As a child, Bruce attended Elk Creek Baptist Church with his family. He accepted Christ and was baptized in this congregation. Bruce had many struggles in his life, but he always had the Lord by his side. He rededicated his life in 2012 after experiencing a life-changing exchange with a stranger on a jobsite by the side of the road. He was always honest about his struggles and witnessed to many through his sincere, transparent humanity. Bruce is survived by his son, Ian, who lives in Hartville with his mother, Sheila Hamrick; his mother, Glennis, of Grovespring; his sisters, Debbie and Danny Jones of Hartville and Denise and Lee Roy Jones of Grovespring; two nephews, Dustin and Jennifer Jones of Huntsville, Texas and Dalton Jones of Springfield; four nieces, Danielle and Robbie Boggs of Marshfield, Andi Sanders of Springfield, and Belle Jones and Lacey Jones of Grovespring; seven great-nieces and great-nephews; a special friend, Paula Roller of Chadwick; and countless extended family members and dear friends who will miss him immeasurably. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph "Leroy," in May of 2012. Memorial contributions to Ian Hogan Education Fund or Shaddy Cemetery, may be made through Holman Howe Funeral Home, PO Box 236, Hartville, Missouri 65667.