Bruce Biermann's Obituary
Bruce Biermann, who passed away on September 30, 2020, was the first son of schoolteachers Arnold and Jean Biermann. Raised in Bellevue, WA, he graduated from Newport High School and earned BS and MS degrees at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
He began his business career at Price Waterhouse. After shifting gears to become a successful stock broker, he was later invited to join the executive finance team at Microsoft. In 2000, Bruce went on to graduate from Seattle University School of Law, and later worked as a consultant, serving on multiple corporate boards.
Bruce’s athletic pursuits ranged from competitive swimming to climbing Mt. Rainier several times to completing the three-day Ultraman race in Hawaii.
His wide-ranging interests led him to earn SCUBA and small-aircraft certifications, work as a CompuServe admin, participate in Toastmasters, travel, and become a ham radio operator. Bruce’s competence in refereeing basketball games up and down the west coast earned him the honor of being inducted into the PNBOA Hall of Fame. His personal library contained more than 10,000 treasured books and a trove of jazz music. Cannon Beach was a favorite destination and with competitiveness as an inherited trait, many hours were spent enjoying ruthless games of pinochle with family.
Bruce’s volunteer activities included several years as an Evergreen Boys’ State staffer, plus a period as general manager of the Unlimited Lights Hydroplane Racing Association. He also served on the editorial board of the Federal Way Mirror, where he earned a reputation for pithy but fair commentary.
He found his greatest accomplishment and joy in raising sons Neil of Federal Way and Brad (Sherree) of Moore, OK, as well as stepson Kian Croston of Federal Way. Bruce also leaves behind his wife Lisa, brother Neil, and mother Jean.
His family would like to thank Catherine Taylor and her staff for their superb, loving care of Bruce during his illness as well as the numerous friends who have been a constant source of comfort and support.
Bruce’s insight, humor and expertise impacted the lives of many -- young and old, near and far. He was a lifelong adventurer who never stopped learning.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Pacific NW Basketball Officials Association, Washington Youth Academy Foundation or the King County Library System Foundation.
A virtual celebration of Bruce’s life will be held soon. To request details and share memories or photos, email [email protected].
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