Bruce Kent Gaddis, 72, of Newton, died on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines.

A memorial gathering will be held from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at the Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell.

Memorials may be designated to Newton Fire/EMS Department and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be shared with Bruce's family online at www.smithfh.com.

Bruce was born August 6, 1952 in Monticello, Iowa to his parents Sam and Sherrill Gaddis. He grew up in Webster City, Iowa, where he graduated from Webster City High School with the class of 1970. It was there that he met the love of his life, Karen Sue Oard. The couple married on January 15, 1971, at Asbury United Methodist Church in Webster City, beginning a lifelong adventure together, including raising two daughters.

Bruce honorably served in the National Guard and was stationed in Augusta, Georgia. Following his service, he and Karen returned to Iowa, making their home in Manson and later in Lake City. Bruce was a dedicated business owner. The couple operated Gaddis Auto Supply in Lake City, IA before Bruce embarked on a career in law enforcement. He was a graduate of the Iowa Law Enforcement's 72nd Basic Academy. Bruce served as the Chief of Police in Lake City before moving to the Des Moines area, where he continued his law enforcement career as Johnston's Chief of Police. His commitment to public service spanned over 25 years.

In retirement, Bruce and Karen lived in Oklahoma and Arkansas before returning to Iowa, settling in Newton to be closer to family. Bruce loved spending time with his family most of all! They could be found on the lake, riding motorcycles, fishing, camping, and attending their grandchildren's sporting events.

Bruce had an unmatched ability to strike up a conversation with anyone and never met a stranger.  He will be remembered for his quick wit, sassy attitude, and stubbornness, but most of all, he will be remembered for his unconditional love, support, and pride in his family.

Bruce is survived by his wife of 54 years, Karen Gaddis of Newton; his daughters, Angie (Josh) Freeman of Malcom, IA and Sam (Tucker) Gilbert of Monroe, IA; four grandchildren, Michael, Kayla, Zander, and Ruby Freeman; a future grandchild, baby Gilbert due soon; his mother, Sherrill (John) Roberts of Marion, IA; his siblings, Mavis Butler of Ames, IA and Beth (Jim) Scheetz of Johnston, IA; and his beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Sam Gaddis; his son, Adam Gaddis, who died at birth; his father-in-law, Ed Oard; his grandparents; and his favorite dogs, Jesse and Willie.