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David Bruce Obituary

Bruce, David M. HALFMOON David M. Bruce, age 58 (he would have been 59, but he was sick for a year) of Halfmoon, passed away suddenly on Thursday, August 23, 2018. Born August 10, 1960, he was the son of the late Patricia Ann Bruce. David said his life really began when he married the love of his life, Joan, on October 17, 1982. Together with their three kids, they moved to Cape Cod in 1983, where David was a chef in several prominent restaurants including The Wayside Inn and The Daniel Webster Inn. David and Joan ultimately opened The Break Away Cafe, a Chatham favorite with lines out the door for his famous buttermilk pancakes and New England clam chowder. In 1994, he traded his chef's knives for power tools until 2001 when his wife - his favorite "snappy dish" - convinced him that inn-keeping would be "so much fun" and they bought The Tern Inn in Harwich. With the help of the most gracious and generous God, they enjoyed 15 wonderful years as innkeepers. In 2015, David and Joan relocated to Halfmoon to spend more time with family. David reestablished Dave's CPR, a home maintenance company, and joined the Capital District Senior Softball League, which, coming in second only to his family, was the other love in his life until his final moments. He loved music of all kinds and every old movie ever made. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and Denver Broncos. David is survived by his wife Joan; sons, Christopher (Jennifer) Millea and Matthew (Lori) Millea; daughters, Kate (Jason) Seale, Emily (Jonathan) Simmons, and Patricia Bruce. He is also survived by grandchildren whom he adored, Ethan, Aaron, Luke, Meghan, Joshua, Juniper and Madelyn. In addition to his mother, he was predeceased by his infant son, Peter Anthony; and by his favorite mother-in-law, Jane Potrikus. Also surviving are siblings, Valerie, Scott and Dennis; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and teammates. Although David will "not be down for breakfast," he will continue to watch over us all. See you 'round, donut! Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, August 28, from 4-6 p.m., with a memorial service to follow at 6 p.m. in the Shenendehowa United Methodist Church, 971 Route 146, in Clifton Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Richfield Springs Central School Music & Arts Boosters, 93 Main St., P.O. Box 631, Richfield Springs, NY, 13439 or to the charity of one's choice. To express condolences please visit catricalafuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Albany Times Union on Aug. 26, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for David Bruce

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September 7, 2018

We are so sorry to learn of David's passing (we read it in the Chronicle). I have such fond memories of working with him at the Wayside Inn back in the early 80's. He was always a gentleman and kind to those who he worked with. With heartfelt sympathy, Susie and Dick Hunter

September 3, 2018

So sorry, Dave was a delight. Peace to your family.
the Crocketts

Rob & Tricia Hoynes

September 2, 2018

Joan & Family,
We are saddened by the news of Dave's passing. He was a remarkable guy with remarkable character...an honest, thoughtful and hardworking family man with a great sense of humor. May you fall back on that during this difficult time. He will be forever in our thoughts and prayers!!!

Nadine Steckler Nowicki

August 28, 2018

Joan and family,

I am so sorry for your loss. David, my brother Nicky and Greg Kries were like brothers and always at our house pulling "pranks". He will be truly missed.

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Nadine Steckler Nowicki

The Friend Family

August 27, 2018

Dear Joan and Family,
We are so shocked and saddened by the news! As we recall the days of our daughters growing up together in Chatham we are honored to have known such a great person. We wish you peace and comfort in all of your wonderful memories together.
Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to all.

Nick Steckler

August 27, 2018

Dear Joan & family. It aches my heart to hear of your loss. Dave & I were quite the duo at times back in the good old Richfield Springs area & were as close as brothers. Mere words cannot express how I feel right now. Please know that you all are in my thoughts & prayers forever. May he rest in peace. Respectfully yours.

Jeff Lucear

August 27, 2018

Dear Bruce Family I extend my deepest sympathies and warmest of thoughts during these trying and difficult times.

Paul Gloo

August 27, 2018

Joan and to all of the Bruce family, I'm very sorry to hear of Dave's passing. Much to early! An all around great, hard working guy, with plenty of humor to go around. Multi talented and such a good nature person. Many great memories of Dave at RSCS and beyond to the days he and his family lived on Cape Cod. I was looking forward, along with many others, to Dave attending our recent High school class reunion this past weekend. We missed you!

Chris Buell

August 26, 2018

From 7th grade to 12th grade he was my locker neighbor. He was truly was of the best people ever! He had a natural charm, wit and humor that was infectious. Too may great memories to list. Condolences to Joan and the kids.

Mary Ann, Noelle and Michael Frongillo

August 26, 2018

Joan and the Bruce Family, our sincere sympathy goes out to you. We fondly remember Dave at the Tern Inn who, regardless of how busy he was, he never was too busy to stop and share some a few words, often humorous. We are sorry Joan, but you lost a particularly special person, man and partner. You will be remembered in our prayers.

Jason Germain

August 25, 2018

I really enjoyed playing softball with him he was an amazing man. He will be surely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

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Funeral services provided by:

Catricala Funeral Home Inc. - Clifton Park

1597 Route 9, Clifton Park, NY 12065

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