Phillip Bruce Pike, Sr. was
born February 10, 1938, in Columbus, Georgia to James M. Pike and
Marie Orr.
Bruce graduated form Jordan
High School in Columbus and joined the Army National Guard in Georgia,
March 21, 1955. He served in the National Guard until July 31,
1956.
He had three goals in life:
to be a husband; a father and a soldier. During his lifetime Bruce
managed to achieve all of his goals in an outstanding sort of way.
Bruce joined the United
States Air Force August 1, 1956. He served many different places
during his career. He served within the United States, Japan,
Germany, Viet Nam, and Thailand. He retired as an E-7 September 1,
1977 after more than 20 years of service.
He married the former
Margaret Jonietz on January 30, 1960 at the St. Benedict's Catholic
Church in San Antonio, Texas. Together they had eight children and
were further blessed with 14 grandchildren and four great-grand
children.
After retiring from the USAF
Bruce worked for the Anson Independent School District and also serviced
oil wells in the Abilene, Texas area. During this time he
continued his college education, attending a number of colleges and
universities while continuing to work and care for his family. In
1990 Bruce graduated with a Business Studies Degree from the University
of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas.
His post military career
included working for the Dee Howard Company in San Antonio and Nordam
Corporation in Oklahoma. Bruce certified as an avionics inspector
during this time and he retired from Nordam in 2001.
Bruce practiced his Catholic
faith throughout his life, living his life to bring others closer to
God.
He demanded the best of
himself and encouraged those around him -- whether at home, at work or
elsewhere -- to expect the best of themselves. Bruce believed in
self-sacrifices for the good of others, especially his family.
He was always approachable.
Bruce cared about his family and friends.
His family and all who knew
Bruce will continue to miss his presence, his love and his guidance.
