Bruce L. Rent

Bruce L. RentBruce L. Rent, 74, of Virginia, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 12, 2026, in Duluth, following a brief but intense battle with cancer.Bruce was born to Joseph and Doris (Lehman) Rent on February 25, 1952, in Virginia, Minn. He attended Virginia High School where he developed his love for swimming. He furthered his education with a bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota Duluth. For 47 years, Bruce was happily married to the love of his life, Leslie "Kay" (Wiermaa) Rent. Together, they built a life centered on family, finding immense joy in raising their two sons, John and Joel. In 2016, Bruce proudly took on his favorite title: "Grandpa." His three grandchildren - Russell, Henry, and Gretchen-were the light of his life.Bruce spent a 30-year career at the Minorca Mine (Inland Steel) in Virginia, retiring in 2006, which allowed him more time to pursue his many passions. Bruce loved attending the races on a Saturday at the Hibbing Speedway, snowmobiling on a fresh trail that he may have groomed the night before, walks with Kay and the dogs, and road trips with his best pals.Beyond being a devoted family man, Bruce was known as a "dog whisperer" and a cornerstone of his community. Whether he was visiting with his morning coffee crew, helping his gun and snowmobile clubs, or serving his church community, everyone knew Bruce was there to help. Kind, humble, compassionate, and a "be-right-there" handyman everyone could count on. If you met Bruce, you left with a smile and a feel-good impression that lasted.He is survived by his wife, Kay; his children, John (Liz) Rent of Mahtomedi and Joel (Nicole) Rent of Eveleth; his grandchildren, Russell, Henry, and Gretchen; his sister, Joey Town of Ham Lake; and a special aunt, Muriel Lehman of Duluth. He was preceded in death by his parents.A memorial service will be held in Bruce's honor on Friday, March 27, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Saviors' Lutheran Church in Virginia, Minn., with Pastor Liz Cheney officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Mesabi Sno Voyageurs Club or Our Saviors' Lutheran Church.Arrangements are entrusted with the Cron-Sheehy Funeral Home. Please visit www.cron-sheehy.com to leave a message of condolence.