Bruce A. Shipman

Bruce Alan Shipman, 64, of Nora Springs passed away on July 22, 2026, after a long battle with Wegener’s Vasculitis. A proud father, devoted husband, proud uncle and great friend to many. A memorial service for Bruce will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at Rudd United Methodist Church, with Pastor Lumiere Kapend officiating. A visitation will be held the evening prior, Friday, August 7, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Major Erickson Funeral Home.

Memorials in Bruce’s honor may be directed to the Rudd United Methodist Church.

Bruce was born on April 6th, 1962, in Mason City, Iowa to Dave and Barbara (Gerdes) Shipman. Bruce grew up alongside his sister, Pam, on their family farm in Nora Springs. That is where he developed a deep appreciation for hard work, family, and land. He spent countless hours mowing and taking care of his mom and dad’s acreage, from his youth all the way up until he couldn’t do it anymore. As a young man, he excelled in football, baseball, and his time in the Boy Scouts.

Throughout his life, Bruce shared a special bond with his dogs. They were more than pets to him; they were his loyal companions, trusted sidekicks. It didn’t matter if they were at home or on the go, Bruce’s dogs were by his side. The companionship and pure love they gave to him brought him great comfort and joy.

Bruce attended Rudd-Rockford High School. After graduating, he attended NIACC. He would go on to work many different jobs including roofing, and driving forklift at the Mason City Cold Storage. He worked at the Hatchery and spent 27 years at Winnebago in Forest City. He spent the last two years working with his wife at their family business. Along the way he made and kept friendships for life. Bruce had a great sense of humor and a love for music. After his mother’s passing, he moved back to the family farm where he was so proud to be the caretaker of his father’s legacy.

Above all else, Bruce cherished his family. He is survived by his wife, Christen; his sons, Justin (Katy) Dana and David (Sara) Shipman; daughter, Jamie (David) Hearn; stepsons, Sean (Betsy) Watkins and Brett (Christina) Funk; stepdaughter, Ashley Hesley; 11 grandchildren and a great-grandchild on the way, as well as nephews Josh (Lacy) Trygstad, Patrick (Laura) Trygstad, and Jody Trygstad, and niece Samantha Lievrouw (fiancé) Skyler.

Bruce is preceded in death by his parents, David and Barbara Shipman; sister, Pamela Trygstad; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.