Obituary of Robert J. Bruce

Robert J. Bruce passed away on Sunday, September 9, 2018, at the age of 79, at the Bethany Manor in Horseheads, NY. At his bedside was his loving wife of 25 years, Helen L. Northrop-Bruce and step daughter Suzane Northrop. Bob was born on July 23, 1939, and was raised by his foster parents Frank and Harriet Bruce of Batavia, N.Y. He is survived by his two sons, Marty Bruce and Robbie Bruce of Batavia, NY. He is also survived by his favorite Aunt Rose and Uncle Warren Ruhlman, and sister Mary Masillo all of Batavia, NY; his three step children Suzane Northrop of NYC, Sherry Lehman of Montana, and Cindy Lou Northrop of Los Angeles, CA. Bob was in the US Army and stationed in Germany and England. He was given an honorable discharge. In his professional career, Bob was a correctional officer for 27 years. He began his career in Attica, NY, and ended his career in Southport Correctional Facility in Elmira, NY. He witnessed the Attica riots and was one of the first officers hired at the new Southport Facility, where he trained many of the new officers. His great passion and love was "Bob's Bike Shop" in Pine Valley, NY, that he owned for over 10 years. He loved working, selling, and fixing all kinds of bikes to different age groups. He also worked in Tioga Downs as a security guard for 5 years. Bob was a member of the Captain Clarence Oliver Post 154 of the American Legion in Elmira Heights, NY. He was also a member of the Moose Club in Montour Falls, NY. Bob loved playing cards. His two favorite games were Euchre and Pinochle, where he won many tournaments. He was also an avid Yankee and Buffalo Bills fan. Graveside services will be held Friday, September 28th at 11:00 am at the Woodlawn National Cemetery, Elmira, NY. A memorial luncheon will follow at noon at the American Legion Post 154, in Elmira. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Parkinson's Association or the Diabetes Foundation. The Bruce family would like to deeply thank the CareFirst staff for their compassion and support during a most difficult time.