Bruce Clifford Jacoby

Bruce Clifford Jacoby, 70, of Oak Park Heights and longtime resident of Cottage Grove, Minnesota, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 16, 2025.

Bruce was truly one of a kind—known for his playful sense of humor, a mischievous twinkle in his bright blue eyes, and a knack for making everyone around him laugh. He loved bestowing creative, often funny, nicknames upon family, friends, and even pets. His corny dad jokes were legendary, always bringing a smile to those around him.

An avid do-it-yourselfer, Bruce enjoyed visiting the library and collecting stacks of books on everything from woodworking to self-help. A lifelong learner, he took pride in figuring out how to do things himself and was always eager to try something new. This skill came in handy at the family cabin, as there was always a project to be done-or, for Bruce, many projects at a time.

Bruce found joy in spending time outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting with some of his most cherished memories made at deer camp. He was also very involved in Boy Scouts, where he supported his son Michael through the process of earning his Eagle Scout rank. Even after his boys had completed their scouting journey, Bruce continued to serve as a merit badge counselor, helping other scouts achieve their goals. In recognition of his dedication, he was honored with the prestigious Silver Beaver Award.

Bruce began his career at American Hoist and Derrick, but after the company relocated out of state, he found himself without a job. After a few months, he was thrilled to secure a job as a janitor at 3M. From there, he worked his way up into a customer service sales support role, where he excelled at learning about the products. His natural ability to connect with anyone he met proved to be a valuable skill as he transitioned into sales. Bruce worked in sales at 3M and Lyle Signs where he built strong, lasting relationships with his coworkers and customers. Many appreciated his sense of humor and good nature. Over time, these individuals became some of his closest friends.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Sandy; daughter, Amanda Mahmood (Carl); sons, Michael (Megan) and Justin; grandchildren, Mason, Carson, Emersyn, Quinn, Ruston, and Sienna; sisters, Vianne Berg, Val White, and Lynnie Raehsler; brothers-in-law, Greg, Mike, John, and Ron; sisters-in-law, Gayla, Judy, Nancy, and Anne; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Brad; parents, Stanley and Jean; brother-in-law, Ernie; and in-laws, Gene and Mary Ann Nichols.

A visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00 PM, on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN 55016.

Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM, with visitation beginning at 10:30 AM, on Friday, March 21, 2025, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 920 Holley Ave., St. Paul Park, MN 55071. A luncheon will follow the mass; all are welcome.

Interment will be at a later date at Resurrection Cemetery, Mendota Heights, MN.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to either the American Stroke Association (Link to Give) or Presbyterian Homes & Services (Link to Give) specifically Boutwells Landing. Bruce received loving care at The Gables of Boutwells Landing, where the staff provided incredible support to Bruce and his family.

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION: For those who would like to participate in Bruce's service via livestream, you can watch the service on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 11:30 AM (CST). It can be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of this page and click PLAY to begin. Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service. If you are having troubles with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.