James Bruch

James (Jim) Matthias Bruch

Jim died peacefully early Saturday morning, July 7th, at home in Lockhart surrounded by family and close friends.

Jim loved many things and excelled at most tasks he attempted. Learning to fly and getting his pilot's license before his driver's license led to a lifelong joyous hobby that he was lucky to share with many, especially his good friend Mark Ritter.

Jim was a builder and approached every construction project with equal pride and skill whether a fast- food restaurant or a historic downtown Austin structure. He enjoyed building schools and churches and took great pride in some enduring restorations such as Palm School, Paggi House, Austin Ballet and the Queen Anne Building. He relished his time working on the Westcave Preserve and some of the additions for the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Jim was born and raised in Memphis TN where he attended Immaculate Conception and Catholic High. He arrived in Austin in 1955 to attend St. Edwards University and except for brief periods never left the Austin area. He loved and cherished his time at St. Edwards and the lifelong friends and affiliation with a place that felt like home. Jim was a graduate of Southwest TX in San Marcos.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Shirley (Cervetti); children, Kathy (Frank Serrano), Margaret (Billy Pope), Mark (Kim), Joe, and John. His beloved grandchildren, Heather, Jonathon (Jessica), Michael and Elizabeth. He leaves his twin brother Joe and older brothers Ted and Dan. Jim also leaves many nieces and nephews and a ton of wonderful friends. Jim was preceded in death by his son Mike.

Jim continued to entertain his family and visitors to the end with his quick wit and unique world view. Special thanks to the Odessy Hospice team and special caregiver's Jose and Rosa who made it possible for Jim to pass peacefully at home.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that you consider a donation to St. Edwards scholarship fund named for Mark T Ritter.

The family will welcome visitors to their Lockhart home on Sunday the 15th beginning at 2 pm. Final arrangements pending Jonathon' s safe return from Afghanistan.