BRUCE GROFF

BRUCE GROFF Bruce Wayne Groff two-stepped his way to Heaven early Saturday morning, June 2, 2012, after suffering a heart attack. Bruce was born May 2, 1958 in Perry, Iowa, but grew up in Las Vegas, where he attended Eldorado High School and received his bachelor of fine arts from the University of Nevada. He moved to San Diego to pursue his master of fine arts degree from University of California, and later received his teaching credentials, including AP (advanced placement) studio art and special education from Chapman University. Passionate about being a teacher and well-liked by his students, Bruce was an educator in the visual arts and special education departments at Hilltop High School. Bruce also remained involved professionally as an active artist. His most recent artwork is currently on exhibit at the Jacobs Center in San Diego. A staunch advocate for arts education and professional development, Bruce was proud to serve in many roles related to art education, including San Diego County Art Education Association (CAEA), co-chair, 2009 CAEA State Art Conference, and Youth Art Month. He was named Outstanding Secondary Visual Art Educator in 2007. Bruce was preceded in death by his father, Gene Arthur Groff. Bruce is survived by his wife, of 12 years, Patti Groff; mother, Diana Rae Groff; twin brother, Brent Groff; brothers, Mark Groff and Michael Groff; nephew, Jason Groff; nieces, Katrina Groff and Veronica Reed; and stepdaughters, Rosalyn Prickett (Matthew) and Christina Kerr (Bryan). Although he had no children of his own, Bruce embraced his new role as "Grandpa Bruce" to Juliet and Elijah Kerr and Dylan Prickett. Bruce touched many, many lives with his infectious smile, ready laugh and quirky ways. As Bruce's nephew, Jason, put so well, "May you use the skills God gave you and paint Heaven a more beautiful place." We take comfort in knowing we were well-loved and that, with his ever-present smile, Bruce will be painting and two-stepping his way through Heaven's gates. A celebration of Bruce's life was held Saturday, June 9, at In Cahoots Dance Hall in San Diego. Donations in Bruce's honor may be made to the SD County Art Education Association, c/o Ron Jessee, SDCOE, 6401 Linda Vista Road, #321 South, San Diego, CA 92111, the Foundation of ALA, 75 Tri-State International, #222, Lincolnshire, IL 60069, or the American Heart Association.