It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Eleanor Bruess. Her soul peacefully came to rest at Sacred Heart Hospital on July 28, 2026.

Mary was born on August 4, 1938, in McAllen, Texas, where she spent her childhood. She attended McAllen High School, where she was involved in band and, in her senior year, was nominated band sweetheart. She met her soulmate, Les Bruess, while he was attending Aviation Cadet Training in Harlingen, Texas. They soon married, and celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in 2023.

Mary and Les enjoyed military life, creating a family of four children and, in military fashion, moving them all over the United States, including Alaska. While Les was on a remote tour in Thailand, he met Father Ray, who had just opened an orphanage. Les and Mary opened their hearts and adopted two girls, who were sisters, to join their family. Their expanded family then moved to Japan for a two-year tour. In 1976, their family relocated to Spokane, and Les retired from the Air Force. Mary began working in administration at Spokane Community College and retired after 25 years.

Mary’s greatest accomplishment was her family. Les and Mary created a household filled with laughter, hard work, and independence. Together they instilled a great work ethic in each of their children and supported them throughout their lives. Mary’s true legacy is her family: Daughter Anna Rae Goetz (Tracey), son Scott A. Bruess, daughter Ganya Moen (Todd), son Alan D. Bruess (Renee), daughter Varee McMinn (Steve); and her grandchildren, Dani (John), Amanda (Dallas), Tyler (Haley), Jeanna (Cody), Veronica, Shane (Cori), Rayli, Taylor (Jessica), Alaina (Tyler), and Brayden as well as 13 great grandchildren. Mary is also survived by her sister, Anna Mae Garner. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Leslie L. Bruess; son, Kenneth L. Bruess; parents, Jerry and Marie Shimerka; and brothers, Harry Dean Shimerka and Arnold Rezac.

Mary will truly be missed, but it is the love she created that lives on and breathes with each of us.

Mary was a donor to many causes. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. Peter Catholic Church or Meals on Wheels.

Services will be held at St. Peter Catholic Church, 3520 E. 18th Ave., on Thursday, August 13, at 11:00 AM. The Rosary will be held on Wednesday, August 12, at 6:00 PM.