Bruce Mallernee
Bruce Mallernee
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Bruce Mallernee Obituary
Dr. Bruce A. Mallernee, 92, a local longtime Battle Creek dentist, died peacefully at The Oaks at NorthPointe on Tuesday evening, February 2, 2016.
Bruce was born July 9, 1923, in Battle Creek, Michigan the son of Wynter and Aline (Lindsay) Mallernee. He grew up in Battle Creek and was a 1941 graduate of Battle Creek Academy. He joined the U.S. Army Air Corp and served his country during WWII. After his tour of duty, he enrolled at Western Michigan University, where he received his undergrad degree. He was then accepted to the University of Michigan Dental School program. Bruce received his DDS Degree from the University of Michigan in 1953. Bruce Alvin Mallernee was united in marriage to the former Wanda Lee Southward on February 16, 1946 at the Battle Creek Tabernacle. After graduating, they returned to Battle Creek where he opened his dental practice. He was a well-known Battle Creek Dentist until his retirement in 1989.
Sadly, Bruce was preceded in death by Wanda, his wife of 59 years, on May 8, 2005. Surviving are his special friend, Mildred Jackson; four sons, Gary (Gail) Mallernee of Orlando, FL, Ron (Laurie Paul) Mallernee and Greg Mallernee all of Battle Creek and Rick (Lori) Mallernee of Atlanta, GA; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a sister Betty Anderson of Battle Creek and a former daughter-in-law, Jane Mallernee of Battle Creek. In addition to his wife, Bruce was also preceded in death by a grandson, Jason Mallernee; two brothers, Dr. Rollin Mallernee, Louie Mallernee; and two sisters, Virginia Luke and Mildred Isaacson.
Bruce was the last surviving charter member of Westlake Presbyterian Church, where he served as a Ruling Elder and was active in numerous activities over the years. He was a longtime member of the Lakeview Kiwanis Club, serving on the board as Secretary of the Club for many years. He also chaired the annual Kiwanis Peanut Sale for charity and always rang the bell for the Salvation Army. Bruce served on the Ethics Committee for the Michigan Dental Association for a number of years. He was also an avid card player, including competitive Bridge and lots of Cribbage with anyone who would sit down with him. Bruce enjoyed camping with his family and working in his yard. Bruce will be remembered by his family and friends as a loving husband, loving father, loving grandfather and one who knew how to make himself feel good by always making others feel better.
Friends will be received 3:00-5:00 p.m. Sunday at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Funeral services will be officiated by Pastor Kate Johnston at the funeral home 1:00 p.m. Monday, February 8, 2016. Committal and entombment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Westlake Presbyterian Church, 415 South 28th St., Battle Creek, MI 49015 or the Lakeview Kiwanis Club, 217 Kensington Circle, Battle Creek, MI 49015. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jane Mallernee
February 1, 2018
Such a loving father-in-law, always asking how I was doing, bringing snacks and beverages without me even asking for them. Playing cards with his sons and grandchildren, so intense!!! I stayed in the background, but loved watching Bruce slap those cards on the table and laugh heartily when he would win and growl in a low voice when he lost.
Mainly I remember the Christmas decorating! The house was truly decorated from items hanging from the ceiling to the floor space being cut in half by all the presents under the tree. I miss those days of love, fun, and good cheer.
And the molasses cookies, just remembering makes my mouth water for one. It took me a few years to actually "like" the cookies but it took a lot less time to realize that I loved them!
I miss you Bruce and Wanda.....
Jane Mallernee
February 1, 2017
Dear Bruce,
Today, you are in my thoughts with fun and thoughtful memories. I find it hard to believe that it's been a whole year since you left us, but it was a blessing considering your physical condition. I miss you Bruce, your smile, your hugs, your humor.
As I sit here, I am smiling with the memories of you winning or losing at cribbage while playing with your grandchildren. You are the one that taught them how to play the game so of course they were all very competitive and crafty.
Your legacy continues within your beautiful, loving grandchildren and great grandchildren. They will always remember their Grandpa as a witty, fun, and loving man.
May God keep your soul in his care until we meet again in heaven.
With Love from your "daughter",
Jane
Marilynn Miles
February 5, 2016
Dr. Mallernee became our family dentist when he started his practice and we stayed with him until his retirement. He was such a kind man and always kept track of our family. He attended my husband's funeral and my Dad's visitation. I will always remember his dedication and gentleness. God bless him and support his family in this time of loss.
Joyce Dowd Byers
February 6, 2016
So sorry to hear of Dr Mallernee's passing. He was our family dentist. He was my dentist from age 5 and I continued with him until his retirement. I always loved his smile and gentle touch.
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Pati Wright
February 5, 2016
Prayers and thoughts too the Family what a wonderful man your parents always were so kind too my family.
Nancy Martens-Vitale
February 9, 2016
I just read of the passing of Dr. Mallernee.
He was our dentist until he retired.
Gary and I both enjoyed visiting with Bruce
and catching up with his latest project.
He had a real gentle way about him and his smile was infectious. We loved Wanda too. I think she kept the office in running order.
Sincerely,
February 8, 2016
Dr. Mallernee was our dentist for many years. We always enjoyed
His sense of humor, his kindness and the "twinkle in his eye."
Sharon Harvey, Bob Weessies, and Ralph Weessies
February 8, 2016
Dr. Mallernee was our dentist for over forty years. We always
Enjoyed his kindness, his sense of humor and the "twinkle in his eye". Sharon Harvey, Bob Weessies and Ralph Weessies
Joe Lussier
February 7, 2016
I have fond childhood memories of pestering Doc as he was digging through his shed for various garden tools. He did love taking care of his lawn! He always had something interesting to tell or teach me. Hope he is enjoying many games of Bocce!
Janet Petersen
February 7, 2016
Dr. Mallernee was my dentist when I was a child. I remember him as kind and nice, able to calm the fears of a child. I am thankful for his kind and caring service as a dentist to my family and for his service to our country. My sympathy to the family. Jan Petersen
Douglas, Kathleen Jackson and Family
February 7, 2016
So very sorry to hear of Bruce's passing, he was our Dentist and our children's Dentist when they were young, until his retirement. He came back into our lives later on when he became close friends with our mom ( Millie Jackson). he always treated her very well, with respect and was always a gentleman around her. We will always remember him for his wonderful smile and his kind and loving heart. He was a great dentist and a wonderful person and great friend to many, who always put others before himself. He will be deeply missed, always. Love always and forever, Bruce. RIP ❤
Rita DeVore
February 7, 2016
Dr. Mallernee was one of my most favorite people. Fun, pleasant and always happy. I know everyone will miss him, including me. Rest in peace Dr. Mallernee.
Bobbi Brunn
February 6, 2016
To Ron and Laurie, my heartfelt sympathies go out to you,your family and friends.
February 6, 2016
Our family went to Dr. Mallernee for many years, he was a very compassionate person. We enjoyed visiting with him on many occasions, his sense of humor was special. He was simply a class act person. Gary and Julie (Hyslop) Lantz
Gene Smith
February 5, 2016
He was a GREAT MAN, With always a great smile! He will be missed by all!
Lillian Hillyer
February 5, 2016
He was a good Dentist and a good friend to many. Bruce lived a long life and I am sure will be missed by his family.
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105 Capital Ave NE, Battle Creek, MI 49017
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