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Bruce Brakenhoff Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Brakenhoff
Jim Bento
July 10, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the family. Bruce was a wonderful friend and always encouraged me. We had a ritual of meeting for coffee early in the morning at the West Palm Show. It will not be the same as I know I will miss him and think of him every year. God bless you Bruce.
Sandy Taylor
July 6, 2012
Bruce was one if the first people I met when I was introduced to the yachting industry and came to Newport to work. Even after that when I returned to Ft. Lauderdale, he was always kind and helpful when I needed to charter a yacht from him. He will be truly missed in the industry. His was certainly a life well lived and will be remembered. My condolences, Sandy Taylor, TAYLOR'D YACHT CHARTERS
Joan Pucino
July 5, 2012
Bruce Brakenhoff Sr, who I fondly nicknamed "the Bishop" early on after first meeting him (long story) was a gentleman always and one of those rare people I was always happy to see. He had a great smile and sincere interest in your wellbeing. I had the pleasure to work briefly for him at B&B "temping" in for his assistant. Even in a short stint I learned so much. Later I worked for his son Bruce Jr. and realized the apple didn't fall far from the tree, as "Jr" was a pleasure to work with too. Sincerest condolences to Noel and all the Brackenhoff family from me and my husband, Anthony.
J P English
June 26, 2012
A true Gentleman on the waterfront, he always had a great smile which stayed with me all day. My deepest sympathy to all the family.
Chris Stapelfeldt
June 24, 2012
Bruce Jr,
I never met your father but since 1968 I do have great memories of being in some strange harbor while delivering a Yacht and there would be you and Joe Bartram walking down the dock.
My sincere condolences,
Chris Stapelfeldt, originally from Connecticut
June 23, 2012
Noel,
First met Bruce in 1944. Knew then that he was a man of stature and integrity. So sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.
Steve Haviland, Vero Beach, FL
Ted Kelley
June 21, 2012
Noel and Bruce,
"Big Bruce" taught me a lot over the tree years I worked for/with him.
I among lots others will miss him greatly.
love too you both.
John Lightfoot
June 21, 2012
Noel, I have just received word of Bruce's passing from John Whitton. Since I don't have your address, I'll use this opportunity to write to say how sorry I am and to hope that you will stay strong and be helped by the support of your kids.
Having lost Joanne in 1993, I understand fully what you have to go through.
Take care of yourself.
Love,
John Lightfoot
June 21, 2012
Bruce was quite the guy--We had many heated chats during our YABA meetings.He was a professional and the industry will miss him..Dick Sciuto
Dean A. West
June 20, 2012
On behalf of the California Yacht Brokers Association I send our condolences to Bruce's family and friends. Bruce Brakenhoff was a respected name in our industry, and even out here on the opposite coast, those of us who knew him, or knew of him, respected his integrity and many contributions to the business of yacht brokerage and the proper way in which to conduct oneself. His legacy will be exhibited and honored by all those who perform their duties as Bruce did - with honesty, integrity, and selfless contribution. Smooth seas and gentle winds to you, Mr. Brakenhoff.
June 20, 2012
I was sad to hear of Bruce's passing. My condolences to the family.
John Osetek, Narragansett RI
Grant Westerson
June 20, 2012
My family's thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Bruce was the gentleman broker of the industry and the very image of professionalism. I was fortunate to know him and work with him as long ago as 1968 and have heard nothing but respect when his name was mentioned. He certainly will be missed.
Michael Myers
June 20, 2012
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
June 19, 2012
Bruce old buddy going to miss you as your presence was always felt in Newport AYCA meetings
Please rest in peace my friend
Captain Ray Rags Weldon ayca/cyba
June 19, 2012
Noel and Bruce: I spent a lot of years working with Bruce, and during that time some would say we had a "love/hate" relationship. Over the years I believe we came to respect each other and I became proud to call him my friend. Whenever I was out of work sick he was the one who would call me to make sure I was ok. I remember Noel when you were sick how devastated he was because of his love for you. While it was sad that you were going through your difficult time then, it was beautiful to see his love for you. My husband, Vinny, came to know Bruce also and respected him a lot.
We have only learned of Bruce's passing today because we are in Mississippi since Vinny is here for a class with the Air Force - and Karen Kelly sent me an e-mail.
Whenever I was in Newport for a meeting and we could manage it, Bruce and I would meet for lunch and he would always talk about you and his whole family, which he loved very much.
Please know that you and the whole family are in our prayers and thoughts.
All our best, Gigi and Vinny Fobert
Anne Cordin
June 19, 2012
I am so saddened to hear of your loss. Noel,Bruce and Betsy,my prayers are with you all.
Dick Sciuto
June 18, 2012
Bruce and I many time did not agree when we were in meeting but I respected his thoughts..He will be missed..
Cathy Hickey
June 18, 2012
Noel, Betsy and Bruce, Out hearts break for you at the loss of such a wonderful husband and father. We hold you in our hearts. with Love all the Hickeys
Harry & Nancy Henriques
June 18, 2012
We share your loss, Noel, with deepest sorrow and sympathy.
Bill Jameson
June 18, 2012
Bruce became a great friend when we served on the Board of Directors of YBAA some 25-years ago. His participation spanned many changes within the industry, though all the while, as serious a person as he was, his sense of humor stayed close to the surface and as keen as can be.
The Lord has chosen a stalwart servant in Bruce; may he rest peacefully and on His steady course.
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