Bruce Allen Messersmith

Bruce Allen Messersmith, 76 of Remington, Indiana passed away on September 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of a family who cherished him deeply.
Bruce was born on April 17, 1950, in Lafayette, Indiana, to Mary Jeane (Murphy) Gray and John “Jack” Messersmith. He graduated from Fowler High School in 1968.

Bruce lived a life defined by service – to his country, his community, and his family. He served honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 25th Infantry Division Artillery, United States Army Pacific. His military decorations and honors included the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Medical Badge, Overseas Service Ribbon, Sharpshooter qualification with the M-14, and Expert qualification with the M-16. He was honorably discharged in September 1970.

Bruce’s commitment to helping others continued long after his military service ended. He devoted 25 years to the Remington Volunteer Fire Department, beginning in 1987and 30 years to Southern Jasper County EMS, beginning in 1986. Whether responding to an emergency, supporting his fellow first responders, or helping a neighbor in need, Bruce could always be counted on. His decades of service reflected his courage, generosity, and genuine concern for the well-being of others.

Above all, Bruce was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother. He is survived by his beloved wife, Vickie Lee (Clark) Messersmith; his children, Sunshine (Katherine) Messersmith of Morocco, Indiana; Sean (Cora) Messersmith of Red River, New Mexico; and Sarena (Ashlee) Messersmith of West Lafayette, Indiana; and his grandchildren, Bailee LaCosse, Hunter LaCosse, Hayden LaCosse, Katlynne Messersmith, Kristian Messersmith, Betsy Messersmith, and Noelle Messersmith.

He is also survived by his mother, Mary Jeane (Murphy) Gray, and his siblings, Jeff Messersmith, Joe Messersmith, Cathy Messersmith, and Ed Gray.

Bruce was preceded in death by his father, John “Jack” Messersmith; his sister, Donna Gray; and his grandsons, Kody, Konnor, and Kaleb Messersmith.

An avid hunter, Bruce especially enjoyed the time, friendships, and stories that came with the outdoors. His family knew him as the maker of the very best deer jerky – a title no one else could match. At Christmas, he faithfully took on the important role of holding the trash bag while presents were opened, quietly keeping the celebration moving and sharing in everyone’s happiness. It was one of the many simple traditions that made him such an irreplaceable part of his family.

Bruce will be remembered for his bravery, his lifelong dedication to serving others, his steady presence, and his love for his family. He gave generously of himself throughout his life, and the difference he made will live on in the communities he served and in the hearts of all who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Remington Fire Department or the American Legion Post 280 and may be mailed to the funeral home administrative office (Stitz-Clapper Funeral Home  PO Box 509  Brookston, IN  47923).