James Bruce, age 38, of Belcourt, ND passed away on Thursday, June 23, 2022 in Watford City, ND.

James Russell Bruce, Waa-bineshiih-ban (White Bird), was born into this world on June 21, 1984 in Minot, ND to Russell Bruce and Caroline (Sandra Patnaude) Bruce, he came like a tornado and left with tornados.  James was always a rambunctious soul, curious, and full of jokes.  He never left without making someone smile.  James had a smile that could light up a room.

James graduated high school in 2002, he then began looking for jobs.  James was a "jack of all trades" and has worked in numerous fields, concrete, roofing, and he drove trucks in the beet fields in the fall.  He would then go get a trade degree at TMCC, where he obtained his CDL license and heavy machine operator license.  His latest employment was with MAH Enterprise in Watford City, where they put up fencing for farm land throughout Watford.

Throughout his life's adventures, James would have two children, Braiden and Abby.  James and Josie Poitra began dating after high school for some time.  They would bring Braiden Duane Bruce into this world where their worlds would be changed forever.  Later, their relationship would end and he would then greet Amanda Houle and together they would welcome a beautiful little girl that is just as rambunctious as him.  James will always be known for a contagious laugh, his humor, and a kind and giving heart.  James would give you the shirt off his back if you were in need.

"In life there are going to be some things that make it hard to smile.  Through all the rain and pain you gotta keep your sense of humor and smile for me now.  Remember that." -Tupac Shakur

James is survived by his parents, Sandra and Russell Bruce; siblings, Marie (Doug) LaFromboise, Jackie (Adam) Monette, and Jeffery Bruce; and numerous cousins, some he was closer to and accepted them as brothers.

James was preceded in death by his grandparents, Edward Patnaude and Gene Bruce Sr., aunts, Ruby (Patenaude) Bruce, Anita (Penny) Martin, and Sheila Nadeau.

Casket Bearers are Doug LaFromboise, Tony Martin, Gene Bruce Jr., Philbert Longie Jr., Henry Gourneau, and Jason Longie.  Honorary Bearers are all family and friends.  Music by Ed and Whanita Bennette.  Reader is Terri Lynn LaFountain.  Rosary led by Fr. Michael Slovak, SOLT.

A visitation will begin at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Belcourt, ND with a Rosary Service at 7:00 PM.  Funeral Mass will be Thursday, June 30, 2022 at 10:00 AM at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Belcourt, ND with Father Michael Slovak presiding.  Burial will follow in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery, Belcourt, ND.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.