Bruce Todd Kerfoot was born December 13, 1938 to Justine and Bill Kerfoot. He passed away unexpectedly on October 10, 2024 at the age of 85. He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Kerfoot, whom he married in 1968. They had a wonderful life together for more than fifty years.
He grew up on the Gunflint Trail in Grand Marais, MN and then attended college at Cornell University after which he went on to serve as an officer in the US Army. He returned home to run Gunflint Lodge with his mother, Justine Kerfoot. He and Sue met, married, and took over Gunflint Lodge in the 1960’s and spent many happy years working together until they sold in 2016. He was an exceptional businessman and spent his life turning the small fishing camp into the premier resort it became. He eventually settled in Osceola, Missouri with Sue.
Over the many years Bruce and Sue traveled the world together and had many grand adventures they came home to share. Bruce held a deep curiosity and love for other parts of the world and their cultures. He loved to go fishing and camping and enjoyed the great Northwoods with all it had to offer, spending summers up on Gunflint Lake after moving to Missouri. He also kept busy creating projects in his workshop, gardening and visiting with his family. He had a great passion for the Chik-Wauk Museum where he served on the board for many years and participated in the many building projects with the “Sawdust Seniors” as they came to be known. The Chik-Wauk Museum holds his family history which was deeply important to him. The Boy Scouts of America was another important cause throughout his life, culminating in being awarded the Silver Beaver award in recognition of his lifetime of support of Scouting.
He is survived by his sister Pat Shoffner, his four children and spouses Brian (Lisa) Kerfoot, Shawn (Bob) Kerfoot, Robert (Miranda) Kerfoot and Lee (Eva) Kerfoot and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Justine and Bill Kerfoot, and his son, David Kerfoot.
The family has asked that in lieu of flowers a charitable donation be sent to the Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center (Grand Marais, MN) in his name.
A celebration of life will be held on the Gunflint Trail at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Bradley & Hadley Funeral Home, Clinton. Condolences may be left at www.bradleyhadley.com.
