YOAKUM: It is with great sorrow that the family of Bruce S. Card, Jr. announces his passing on October 19, 2025, at the age of 92. Bruce was born July 4, 1933, in Lindenau, Texas, to the late Bruce S. Card Sr. and Gladys (Frisbie) Card.
Bruce spent his early years helping his parents on their dairy farm. He graduated from Cuero High School, briefly attended Texas A&M University, and then served honorably in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany. After completing his service, he returned home to Texas.
Bruce managed and served as president of Yoakum Little League baseball, raised cattle, and found joy in time spent on his John Deere tractor. His career included work with the Texas Highway Department, restaurant management, and with the Houston Chronicle. While at The Houston Chronicle, Don Kaspar approached him to work at Kaspar Wire Works, Inc. in Shiner, Texas. There, Bruce served as Sho-Rack Sales Manager for 18 years.
In 1969, Bruce and his business partner Johnnie Valis founded Mechanism Exchange & Repair, Inc., initially as a part-time venture. In 1984, they left Kaspar Wire Works to operate the business full-time. Today, the company remains in operation under the management of his son Jeffrey Card and plant manager Robert Hermes.
Bruce was always thinking ahead to his next project — whether developing new products, experimenting with hydroponic gardening, or building rent houses, chicken coops, and storage buildings. He never shied away from a challenge, except perhaps when it came to auto repair, electrical work, plumbing, or computers. He and Dorothy shared a love of travel, visiting many countries together; Spain was his favorite, and he returned for a second visit. Quiet generosity was one of Bruce’s defining traits. Many who faced hard times were lifted by his kindness, though he never sought recognition. Above all, Bruce valued honesty and integrity — he could forgive almost anything except a lie.
In 2020, Bruce was diagnosed with cancer and faced the disease with remarkable courage and determination. After a hard-fought battle, he was declared cancer-free in 2022; however, the illness and its treatment left lasting effects on his body. Bruce’s years were brightened by the friendship and care of many. He was especially grateful to Garlan Weber, who faithfully delivered his breakfast each weekday for the past two years; his business partner, Johnnie Valis; and lifelong friends George Bucek, Gilbert Adamek, Carlos Steinmann, George Boeker, and Johnny Leopold. He also deeply appreciated Fago James who was always there if Bruce need a hand and his caregivers — Jeane Jimenez, Jeanine Trevino, and Dobie Johnson — whose kindness and compassion brought great comfort.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 33 years, Dorothy Card, his children Pamela Sanfilippo (Michael), Stacy Kvinta (Ken), Jeffrey Card, his stepson Brian K. Kurtz, and sister Mary Garrett. His legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren — Gina Sanfilippo Lloyd (Grant), Alyssa Sanfilippo, Adam Kvinta, (Catalina), Ryan Kvinta, (Kailey), and Kaitlyn Kvinta — and great-grandchildren Zeke and Zoey Lloyd and Manuel Kvinta. He will also be fondly remembered by his brother-in-law Rev. Msg. Emil J. Wesselsky, sister-in-law Betty Wesselsky Barbera, nephews Scott (Jennifer) and Steve (Olivia) Garrett, and great-niece and nephew Natalie Garrett and Ralph Garrett.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce S. and Gladys Frisbie Card, and his brother-in-law Ralph Garrett.
Visitation 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.
Funeral services 2 p.m., October 23, 2025 at First United Methodist Church of Yoakum with Pastor Warren Hornung officiating. A private burial will follow.
For those who desire, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First United Methodist Church of Yoakum.
