Memorial services for Bruce Menkens, age 70, of Fairfax, SD will be held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Legion Hall in Verdel, NE. Claussen Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Bruce was born on November 22, 1955, to George and Laverne (Klinetobe) Menkens. He was raised in Butte, NE, where he attended school before attending high school at Boys Town in Omaha, NE. Bruce married Ellen Emme in 1974, and together they welcomed their son, Christopher Allen, on April 8, 1975.
Bruce worked for the Gregory County Highway Department for nearly 25 years before pursuing his career as a mechanic. His years of work reflected his skill with his hands and his dedication to his trade.
Bruce Allen Menkens, 70, of Bonesteel, SD, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at his home.
Bruce is survived by his son Christopher of Bonesteel, SD; grandchildren Christian, Noah, and Isabella of Bonesteel, SD; brother Jim (Janet) Menkens of Monett, MO; sisters Lynn (Jim) Henderson of Verdel, NE, and Janice Tyrrell of Cedar Rapids, IA; sister-in-law Janice Menkens of Prescott Valley, AZ; brother-in-law Dean Frick of Baton Rouge, LA; and other relatives and friends.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents George and Laverne Menkens; brother Jerry Menkens; sister Connie Frick; brother-in-law Leo Tyrrell; niece Michelle (Frick) Zander; and nephew-in-law Barret Benton.
