George A. Bruick, Jr.'s Obituary
George A. "Jake" Bruick Jr., 94 of Fort Wayne, passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Adams Heritage, Monroeville. Born in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late George H. and Malinda (Thiele) Bruick. He was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church Soest, Fort Wayne. He served his country in the US Army during the Korean War and was a member of American Legion Post 423, Orland, VFW Post 7205, Angola, and the Lion's Club. He was the owner and operator of Three Kings Tavern in Hoagland, Roanoke Village Inn, and Lake George Retreat. He worked to promote greater opportunities for his peers and colleagues as he served as president of the Indiana Tavern Owners Association for several years. Jake wrapped up his hospitality career by serving as the restaurant co- manager with his wife, Marilyn, at the Indiana Auto Auction for over 20 years.
These are some of the stats, but life for Jake was so much more. He not only owned Three Kings but loved the small town of Hoagland and wanted to see it grow and become a vibrant community for all. In this desire, he was instrumental in helping organize the Hoagland Area Advancement Association, launching the annual summertime celebration of Hoagland Days, cooking up a vast array at the annual Wild Game Fry, and even introducing the German tradition of Oktoberfest at the fairgrounds.
His love for cooking and entertaining was not only evident at his restaurants, but in other areas of his life as well. The smell of BBQ ribs, savory Swiss steak, and countless hog roasts continued long after Jake and Marilyn's days at Three Kings. He loved to bless others with great food at family gatherings and especially at church functions where they attended, and even the various churches where some of their children served across the Mid-West.
Jake loved life and would be described as "ornery" by most who really knew him. But behind the jokes and pranks was a warm and caring heart. Running multiple business ventures and balancing family life was at times difficult, but he loved his wife, children, and grandchildren greatly. They often heard him say, "We'll work hard together... and then we'll play hard together." Time behind the boat waterskiing or racing across the white fields on snowmobiles were often part of the fun, if he wasn't busy beating you in a game of bid euchre
He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Arlene (Adam) Bruick; children Steve (Mary Drews) Bruick of Hoagland, Sharon (Gary) Standerfer of Nobelsville, Tom (Patti) Bruick of Angola, Scott (Jan) Bruick of Seward, NE, Kristie (Brad) Sombke of Indianapolis, and George (Elizabeth) Bruick of Fishers; stepchildren, Gary (Sue) Widenhoefer, Duane (Nila) Widenhoefer, Patsy (Ron) Bowen, Cindy Longsworth, Penny (Bill) Reichhart; 17 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. George was also preceded in death by his first wife of 58 years, Marilyn in 2009, and brothers, Robert and Richard Bruick.
Funeral service is 11am Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church Soest, 9909 Wayne Trace, Fort Wayne with visitation one hour prior. Visitation is also Friday, February 23, 2024, from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm at Harper's Community Funeral Home, 740 State Road 930 E., New Haven. Burial in the Emanuel Lutheran Cemetery, New Haven. Preferred memorials to the Emmanuel Lutheran Church Soest, Fort Wayne and Lutheran Hour Ministries at www.lhm.org. For online condolences please visit www.harperfuneralhome.com
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