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Bruce Fields Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Fields
Rubina Anjum
March 2, 2020
Mr. fields was one of the most dedicated, funny and helpful teachers. I was fortunate enough to have him as a teacher when my family emigrated from India. He was extremely supportive and ensured that I had an equal opportunity to excel in class. I still think about his small gestures that made me feel welcomed in the classroom and part of a big community. Its been over 20 years and I still carry fond memories of that class and Mr. fields. May you Rest In Peace and make heaven as fun as your classrooms.
Sal Vargsa
October 11, 2016
Bruce, you were one funny teacher. I enjoyed the little time I had as one of your students. In peace always...
March 30, 2011
Mr. Fields was a really nice teacher. I'm 47 and I had him as one of my teachers at Centerville Jr. High. He also taught my oldest daughter who is 26 and my youngest daughter who is 16. He will be missed! My condolences to the family. Linda McGrue (Gouletas) (Fremont, CA)
Kathy Price
March 21, 2011
I taught at CJHS with Bruce for so many years. He was one of the MOST devoted teachers I ever met there. He had such a wide circle of influence... and we will ALL miss him.
Larry Plaza
March 20, 2011
I knew Bruce from the many sports he officiated with my kids. In 2000 I was coaching a U14 girls soccer team that Jorie was on. I got to know the great family as the season went along. My condolences and sympathy to his family. Bruce was a giving man and will be missed. RIP Mr. Fields.
Carlos Goulart
March 16, 2011
He was a great instructor. I was a student of his in '76 and played soccer for him at WHS in '79-'80. One of a handful of teachers that challenged his students and brought the best out of them. A great teacher, soccer coach and friend. He will be missed.
Meredith Saunders-Marquardt
March 12, 2011
I have only fond memories of Mr. Fields -- during summer school, of all places. A kind and gentle man who had a smile you don't quickly forget. He will clearly be missed by so many. My deepest condolences to the Fields family.
Nancy Misra
March 12, 2011
Mr. Fields was a gift to our family. He taught our three children and their peers with a caring heart, a historian's love of a good story, and the humor of a veteran middle school teacher. What a combination!!! A faithful friend and teacher has moved on. We are happy and honored to have known him. Blessings upon Kathy and family. With love and prayers, Vinaye, Nancy, Carl, Anna, and Maya Misra
"john boy" Centerville Class of 1966 Billings
March 12, 2011
I never had Bruce as a teacher but rather as my only brother-in-law. I first met Bruce at my baby sister's wedding and I sure had my doubts....As many have noted, his sense of humor was rooted in junior high. He might be buried in his book but was always alert for any chance to throw his tidbit of wisdom/humor in any conversation. His body type was not the typical athletic coach and yet his varsity soccer team was the only league champion Washington High school had one year. Amazing, Bruce and the 49er's Bill Walsh both coached and never taught classes there. They must have been pretty good teachers. Bruce was a most unique class act. He left a life fulfilled. I'm honored to have had him as a friend and brother.
Dennis Boegel Jr
March 12, 2011
Forever the heart & soul of Centerville! Bruce, thank you for making it better for both students (my classmates MSO, MH, & KS have posted) and colleagues (my father's last 5 of a 40-year Eastbay education career were spent as a Centerville counselor from 2001-02 to 2005-06; there was great reason why my dad yielded the spotlight on his retirement day - he was treated to a classic roasting that still makes me laugh & smile to this very day).
Kathy, thank you for sharing your man with us throughout an amazing 40 decades. The influence carries over not just throughout the community but through the country world. God Bless!
Sincerely from the Class of 1982,
Martie Jones
March 10, 2011
I'd like to start off by saying I'm truly sorry for your loss. I had the privileged to grow up around Bruce's daughters and had him for an instructor. When you grow up in a town like Niles everyone is connected with a certain closeness that you never seem to forget. I used to ride my bike past the house if Mr. Fields was out or any family for that matter I would always say hi. being taught by him was great if you had this experience it definitely is one you'll never forget. You will forever be respected and missed.
Dianna Sloves
March 8, 2011
Mr. Fields was a great teacher! I remember when my daughter, Jackie, came home and told me that Mr. Fields encouraged her to be a "joiner". From that moment on, she joined just about every club and leadership activity she could squeeze into her busy schedule! And she loved playing chess with him at lunch! Cathy, my thoughts are with you and your family.
Brian Keller
March 8, 2011
Mr. Fields stands out in my mind as one of the top instructors I’ve had the privilege to have had yelled at me when I was 13 years old! [lol !!] He was a rare teacher who treated his students as if they were his peers. If you were lucky enough to be playing soccer when he was around, it was a bonus! His job was his passion and everyone knew that he was right where he belonged. He will be missed.
Sincerely,
Brian Keller
Stephanie San Filippo Parsons
March 8, 2011
To the Fields family, so sorry to hear about your loss. He was a great teacher and a good friend.
Bridgit Balingit Pelley
March 8, 2011
In looking at these entries, it is truly amazing and a testament to the person Mr. Fields was and how many people he affected over his teaching career. We were all not only better students, but better people because of Mr. Fields. God bless you and may you rest in peace.
kevin silva
March 8, 2011
WOW!Mr.Fields is the one teacher I will always remember. I was the one he used to say SILVA five min. I would rack up about 45 min. a day in detention. We spent some quality time together where he taught me a lot. I remember getting hit by corn nuts and still todate I dont like them. Thanks for putting up with me and leading me in the right direction. Bruce was a great man and teacher. Those days will remain in my heart for ever. Much love..Peace Mr. Fields..
Gina Rodarte
March 8, 2011
To the Fields Family, I'm sorry to hear about your lost, Mr.Fields was a great man and a great teacher. My prayers are with you all.
Gina Rodarte
March 8, 2011
To the Fields Family, I'm so sorry to hear about your lost, Mr.Fields was a great man and a great teacher. My Prayers are with you all.
Marina & Tony Gunady
March 8, 2011
With our deepest sympathy to Mrs. Cathy Fields & the Fields family.
Laura Alman (McKay)
March 8, 2011
Mr. Fields was not only an amazing teacher to me back in 1980 but he also became a close friend to our entire family. We will miss him and his goofy sense of humor. It's touching to see what a positive impact he had on so many of his students lives.
Suzanne (Kuks)Shelvock
March 7, 2011
I remember many laughs shared with Mr. Fields. He had such a quirky personality. Always a fun class to go to. Rest in peace Mr Fields. God bless those you have left behind. Your smile will live on forever.
Julie Newray
March 7, 2011
Thank you for all the support with soccer. We are all fortunate to have known him.
March 7, 2011
Mr. Fields was one of those teachers that you remember for what they taught you, how they treated you, encouraged learning as something fun and lifelong. He focused on intelligence, respect and life in general.
Thank you so much....
Sue DiCero (class of 77 Centerville)
Nashville, TN and Budapest, HU
Shannon McKay
March 7, 2011
Mr. Fields was a truly amazing man and teacher. I feel very fortunate to have been one of his students. I will remember him always.
John Dal Pino
March 7, 2011
My sister and I (Classes of 75 and 72 respectively) were sad to hear that Mr. Fields had passed. We have fond memories of social science class and the analysis of contemporary music lyrics as they related to current events.
John Dal Pino and Jean Ofstedahl (Dal Pino)
Michelle Hazen
March 6, 2011
Rest in Peace, Mr. Fields! Kathy, my sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and the family! I am truly saddened by Mr. Fields' passing. Bruce was more than just a teacher; he was an amazing person and friend to all he met. He was always so kind and considerate to his students that we always felt accepted and welcomed. I hope that you find comfort and happiness in knowing that he has touched the lives and hearts of so many others and gave them the eternal gift of many happy memories.
Janice Gebhardt
March 3, 2011
My family and I send our condolences to Kathy and family. Mr. Fields was one of those teachers that touched your heart and helped students at that "awkward" age learn and grow.
Lisa Sprague Duncanson
March 3, 2011
I'm so sorry to hear the sad news about Mr. Fields! He was my teacher 22 years ago. He helped my class through a very difficult time. I still use the color-coded note taking system he taught us! He was a great teacher with very high standards, which is the kind of teacher I aspire to be!
Anjali Saraf
March 3, 2011
Mr. Fields is one of the few teachers I remember from my time at Centerville. He definitely stood out in my mind because of his good heart and fun approach to teaching. I still remember the kind smile he gave me daily. My thoughts are with his family at this time. We are all lucky to have had him in our lives at one time or another.
Mark Holguin
March 3, 2011
Mr Fields was an inspiration to all. Very good Teacher and all around good guy. It was an honor to be taught by you. Thank you from all of The Holguin Family, 2 generations of students. Kathy and Family, our hearts and prayers are with you.
Nancy Pimentel
March 3, 2011
He was a great man and teacher. I have thought of him often throughout the years...41 of them. He taught me a lot more then history. I am sorry for your loss. Prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Marissa Kinel-Espinola
March 3, 2011
Mr. Fields, may you rest in peace. You were a very nice and funny man. My condolences go to your family.
Jennifer Ricci
March 3, 2011
I will always remember him with a well-worn paperback in his hand and a smile on his face. His many years of service to all of our children is a wonderful legacy.
Kim Loud-Keithly
March 3, 2011
Mr. Fields- WOW! How can I ever forget you? You chaperoned our trip to Washington DC back in 82/83; a trip that I will never forget because I wasn't much interested in History until then and it opened my eyes to learning in a whole new way. YOU made me interested in a lot of different things in a whole new way. That's just the kind of person/teacher that you were. The world will definitely be a little duller without you in it. You will be missed. My condolences to your family.
Marianne Salinas-Overton
March 3, 2011
Farewell Mr. Fields, you taught me more about life than any other teacher at Centerville and showed us what a sense of self meant when we were all in our nerd-awkward phase of life (1982). Thanks for trusting me with your store! Peace to you and your family.
Isabel Gallagher
March 3, 2011
One of my favorite teachers. May he rest in peace. :(
Gino Vicini
March 2, 2011
What greater legacy could one leave behind better than wisdom, humor and integrity. He was definitely one of the most peaceful people I'd ever met. It seems he always carried a book and a bag full of jokes.
Our prayers are with his family, thank you so much for sharing him with so many, three of whom were our kids.
Kenny Moore
March 2, 2011
One of History's greatest Teachers !!! He will be missed
Kenny Moore 82,83,84
Bradley Baldino
March 2, 2011
R.I.P. Mr. Fields....the first person to teach me about credit..albeit for candy...but a valuable lesson never forgot! Thank you Sir!
Fred Newman
March 2, 2011
Kathy and Family: Bruce was my teacher at CJHS during 71 & 72. He was an amazing educator, motivator, & friend. Teachers and coaches have a rare privilege to touch so many lives over so many years. What a tremendous legacy he leaves.
Amanda Aguilera
March 2, 2011
Mr. Fields was an amazing teacher. There are things he taught me 7 years ago that I still remember as a college student today. He was funny, honest and one of the most memorable instructors I ever had. I will always remember him and the impact he had on my life.
Elise Marie Neves
March 2, 2011
Mr. Fields was an excellent teacher and a great person; he was inspirational and really had a way of getting through to people. It has been years since I have seen him, but I can still hear his voice and laugh. He has made a great impression on myself as well as many others. My love to the Fields family.
Tiffany Brown
March 2, 2011
I had Mr. Fields as a teacher, played soccer with his daughters and he was a friend of my grandfather, as they were involved in FGSA together a long, long time ago. I'm very sorry to hear he has passed away. My deepest and most sincere sympathies go to the family at their time of loss. He will most definitely be missed.
Suzy Monlux-Mahusay
March 2, 2011
Like many I was sadden to hear of the passing of Mr. Fields. A few months back I had run into Mr. & Mrs. Fields grocery shopping, I decided to say hello and reintroduce my grown-up self to them. I think it is a knack that all good teachers have that when a former student comes up to them, they can make the student feel like they remember them, like that student mattered. I mean how can they remember us all? Especially Mr. Fields he taught for 41 years! We talked about family, former students and the Washington D.C. trip I took in 8th grade that the Fields chaperoned. At the end of the conversation, I told him I can’t wait to tell all my old Centerville friends on facebook that I ran into you… then he promptly ran his scooter into my cart and said “You won’t be lying we really did run into each other”. HA! He still had it, that silly sense of humor. So Mr. Fields… thank you for being a great teacher and for making me feel like I mattered as a teenager and as a grown-up. To the Fields family my deepest condolences.
stephen Holguin
March 1, 2011
Mr. Fields you were by far the best teacher i ever had and will definetly be missed. For the two generation of holguins you taught we send our thoughts and prayers to your family. and who could forget the brunch rush and yeah those corn nuts.
March 1, 2011
To the Fields family. You were all so lucky to have such a man in your lives. You shared him with all of us who roamed the halls at Centerville, and played FGSA. Because of Mr. Fields, I know I am a better person from having him be a part of my life even for a short time. He never took my crap and he believed in me, and all that I could do. Thank you all again for sharing this wonderful man with so many of us. I hope he has found peace and that each of you finds it too. Gina Fisci Souza
Quanisha Smith
March 1, 2011
The best history teacher I've ever had. It's hard to see you go. But you've touched so many lives and brightened so many days. I'm going to miss you a lot BOB aka Mr. Yellow Mellow.
Dale Mattier
March 1, 2011
I think about a time a few years ago when the Fields and Mattier's went out to dinner. Bruce told us about the joys of fatherhood, until he had a daughter he called " the baby from hell", Jorie. He had us in stiches telling the story. RIP Bruce.
Lucy Rich
March 1, 2011
Writing as a mother with sons and as a teacher with students who had Bruce as their substitute teacher, I'm amazed at the impact this man can make in a short amount of time. I couldn't understand how this could be until I met Bruce. Unusual in his combination of gentleness, intellect and wit, he is disarmingly enchanting. I'm glad for all those who have been touched by him.
Eleanor Luchka
March 1, 2011
Of all the teachers I've ever had, Mr. Fields stands out in my mind as one of the best, in the top 5. He was a rare teacher who treated his students as if they were his peers and not just children to be taught, his job was his passion and everyone knew that he was right where he belonged. He will be sorely missed. My sympathy and condolences go to his wife and children.
Patrick Bacon
March 1, 2011
R.I.P. Mr. Fields, you were a very funny interesting, and entertaining teacher. You will be missed by all Centerville students.
LaKeisha (Shurn) Smith
March 1, 2011
He always went out of his way to make you smile. I needed that. Thank you for bringing out the intelligence in me.
Dee Figuera Long
March 1, 2011
Thank you Bruce for the countless, selfless hours you spent refereeing my daughters soccer games. We could always count on you being there. Bruce was also a wonderful friend. Our love and condolences to Kathy and the girls.
Jenn Pine
March 1, 2011
So sad to hear this. When I think of Mr. Fields I think of "The Candy Man". He always had a smile on his face and positive words. Made everyone feel accepted. Love to the family.
Judy Chestnut
March 1, 2011
Always loved your crazy sense of humor and your jokes. You were a great teacher and inspired many students, including my two children. You will not be forgotten. Rest in peace Bruce.
amanda ortmann
March 1, 2011
Always a funny and alive in spirit forever and always!
Jessica Mowry
March 1, 2011
This was hard to hear. He will be missed. I had a wonderful time in his class 92-93
Tracie Trubey
March 1, 2011
Thank you for being a competitive coach, a great teacher, a good referee, and a true educator in every sense of the word. Cathy, you and Bruce were always quite a team and he will be greatly missed. My best to you and your family as you move on but hold on to the memories. Tracie @ Horner
Julian Rodriguez
March 1, 2011
So sad that you are gone and we will miss you so much.
Adriana Gonzalez
March 1, 2011
I always looked forward to going to your class. Also buying those yummy ranch corn nuts. Such a great and patient teacher that made learning fun! You will be greatly missed but forever in our memories...
Debbie Chestnut
March 1, 2011
My heart goes out to the Fields family. I have great memories of Mr. Fields. I always looked forward to attending his class because he made learning so much fun. He was always going above and beyond to help everyone out and raise money for school programs. Sending peace, love and hugs to Kathy and the Fields family in your time of sorrow.
Aimee Davis
March 1, 2011
I will always remember you as a funny and remarkable educator. Thank you for always being you. Love to your family.
Jessica Guerrero
March 1, 2011
Thank you for being such an inspirational teacher! You will be missed Mr. Fields.
JoAnn Smith
March 1, 2011
Will always remember him for how truly dedicated he was to helping "our kids". And the smile he brought to my face walking around CJHS campus with those dam yellow shorts and red high top sneakers!!!
Hugs to Kathy and the girls!
Neva (Duge) Gambill
March 1, 2011
Mr. Fields was definitely one-of-a-kind! Funniest teacher I ever had ... The world was a better place because of him. Love and comfort to your family.
Aaron Bell
March 1, 2011
RIP to a great person who touched many lives, including mine during CJHS years 1982/1983.
Kim Willis- Kelley
March 1, 2011
To many memories to count, from being a student to TAing in High school. Thank you Mr Fields for the love and guidance you gave to so many.
March 1, 2011
Mr Fields, I always enjoyed coming to your class. You made school fun and enjoyable. I will always remember your sense of humor and your patience. You got me hooked on Bit o Honeys! Thanks for all the memories. You will be missed. My prayers go out to your family...
Brenda Martinez, Class of 1996, 1997
March 1, 2011
Thank you for your thoughts and your wisdom - even if i was in junior high i remember you saying when i could not complete your fill in test you said - "remember steve, not all tests are multiple choice..." Thank you for all your learning and chess games..
Steve Staccy
March 1, 2011
Mr fields was a great guy that i enjoyed seeing everyday for a few years while i attended his class at centerville. I can say that he will be missed and i will always remember that "not every test is multiple choice" -
Steve Stacy
Kim Kean
March 1, 2011
Wow what an amazing man and teacher. I teach because of the wonderful time I had with Mr Fields at Centerville. Great memeories at school then at the pool. Thank you for the memories.
March 1, 2011
No doubt Bruce ('Coach Fields' to me) was among the most engaging/dedicated teachers I ever had, always appreciated his clear instruction and enjoyed his super sharp wit...a funny guy (particularly out on the soccer field). Sorry for your family's loss.
~Will Gotthardt (CJHS '76-'78) (WHS Soccer '79-'82)
Justin Hill
March 1, 2011
"What's the meaning of life?" Thanks for the memories!
Bob and Carol Welch
March 1, 2011
It's hard to imagine a world without Bruce. We appreciate his efforts and loyalty to his FUSD students and his devotion to sports and players. Our condolences to Kathy and family.
Adam Hicklin
March 1, 2011
Thank you Mr. Fields I never had another Saturday Detention after our double session in 1991. Plus you always got a smile out of me. Love to you and your family.
Kristy Metzger
March 1, 2011
Thank you for making learning fun!
Debbie Crum
March 1, 2011
Goodbye Mr. Fields, you were a huge influence in so many lives. Will miss you! My deepest sympathy and condolences to your family! Debbie Crum 1982/1983 Centerville Jr High Student- Art and History
Patty Goulden Walker & family
March 1, 2011
Our dear 'Mr. Fields'...he left quite an impression on so many lives. He was one of those teachers you'll never forget. I didn't have the pleasure of being in one of his classes when I attended Centerville back in the early 70's, but both my kids were lucky enough to have him as a teacher. He will be missed! Our deepest sympathy and love to the family.
Sandy Tinsley
March 1, 2011
I had the pleasure working with Bruce coaching JR high sports for Fremont Unified School District and well as Umpiring for Fremont Girls Softball Association. He was tough when it came to rules. Best experience I had. May your next journey be peaceful.
Hilary Pangelinan- Gordon
March 1, 2011
RIP Mr. Fields. Thanks for making learning fun and for the great pictures!
March 1, 2011
Thanks for the memories of Junior High you were one of the best teachers we had. May the love of God comfort all of you at this time. You will be missed!
Delmer Lee Pritchard
Juanita Pritchard Klingensmith
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