Bruce Derenthal

Bruce Charles Derenthal died peacefully in his home on February 1, 2026. Bruce was born on January 17, 1941, in Tampa, Florida to Elizabeth and Joe Derenthal. He graduated from Brandon High School in 1959 and then attended King College where he received his B.S. in Math. His education continued at Texas A&M, Penn State and the University of Florida where he received Meteorology certification and later an M.S. in Computer Science.

Bruce enjoyed a wide variety of interests over his 85 years. As a young man, he volunteered as a camp counselor in Black Mountain, North Carolina where he developed his love for the Blue Ridge Mountains and long hikes. He was a lover of classical music and had dry wit with a sharp sense of humor.

Bruce served his country as a United States Air Force (USAF) Weather Officer and Computer Systems Officer. Bruce retired after 20 years of honorable service at the rank of Major. He served two tours of duty overseas during the Vietnam War as a Weather Officer, primarily in support of Aircrew's flying missions over North Vietnam stationed at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base in Bangkok, Thailand. He earned medals for Meritorious Service and was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Gallantry Cross w/Palm. After his service in the Vietnam War, he was posted to a remote site in Australia where he worked on missile defense systems.

While overseas, he became a glider pilot and continued flying after retiring to Aurora, Colorado. The next stage of his career saw him working for various defense contractors and Qwest Communications. Bruce enjoyed singing for the Denver Opera Company as well as community chorus and theater. He cherished his time as a member of Calvary Presbyterian Church and the many friends he made there.

Retiring for the 2nd time brought him to his family home in Seffner, Florida in 2014. He became an active member of The Presbyterian Church of Seffner. As a faithful volunteer for Meals on Wheels and a member of the church choir, Wednesdays became his favorite day. In addition to his church activities, he was a proud member of the Tampa Oratorio Singers.

Bruce is survived by his children, Kimberlie Giordano (Vincent) and Don Derenthal (Adrienne), and six grandchildren: Vince, Maya, Lily, Alaina, Joseph and Logan. He is also survived by his siblings Tom Derenthal (Jean), Philip Derenthal (Ginger), Anne Heidt (Jay) and Emalee DeBevoise (John).

He is predeceased by his parents and son Bruce Derenthal, Jr.

A Celebration of Bruce’s life will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 11am at The Presbyterian Church of Seffner. Services will be livestreamed from the church’s Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/share/19tx6fB6pi/?mibextid=wwXIfr

In Lieu of Flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to:
The Presbyterian Church of Seffner
PO Box 545
Seffner, FL 33584
Please note “Derenthal Memorial” in the memo section.