Bruce Campbell

 

Bruce Campbell, 81, a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Carrollton, Carroll County, Kentucky on December 2, 2023. He was born on May 10, 1942, in North Arlington, Bergen County, New Jersey to the late Charles Campbell and Janet Gordon Campbell.

Education held great importance to Bruce. After graduating from Pequannock Township High School in Pompton Plains, New Jersey in 1960, he enrolled at Rutgers University for a year and a half before transferring to Newark College of Engineering. Bruce's academic journey led him to Stevens Institute of Technology where he earned his master's degree in business administration.

Bruce had a fulfilling and accomplished career. He began his professional journey at American Cyanamid in Bound Brook, New Jersey before relocating with his family to Carrollton, Kentucky when he accepted a position at M & T Chemical Company in July 1974. In 1984, he transitioned to Michelman Inc., where he worked until his well-deserved retirement in 1998. Even after retiring, Bruce continued to share his knowledge and passion by substitute teaching biology in the Carroll County School System. He later became a valued full-time technology teacher at Carroll County High School until his retirement in 2003.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bruce cherished his hobbies and had an adventurous spirit. One of his lifelong passions was hiking. Alongside his brother Charles Gordon Campbell, Bruce embarked on an awe-inspiring journey along the Appalachian Trail from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Mount Katahdin, Maine. Covering over 2,190 miles during their trek, this experience provided Bruce with cherished memories for years to come.

In September 1964, Bruce achieved one of his proudest accomplishments by marrying the love of his life, Carole Pellett Campbell. Together they created a joyful and nurturing home for their children: son Bruce Fraser (Constance L.) Campbell of Simpsonville, South Carolina, and daughter Susan Campbell Lark (Gary Libby) of Carrollton, Kentucky. Bruce not only dedicated himself to his immediate family but also fostered deep connections with his extended family and friends. He will be deeply missed by his sister Janet Campbell (Victor Whitehouse) of West Wareham, Massachusetts, a brother Charles Gordon (Joan) Campbell of Naples, Florida, and grandchildren Brooklyn Fraser Campbell, Hanna Lynne Campbell, Jaden Campbell Lark, and Brett Janet Lark. Additionally, he leaves behind Kristopher (Lisa) Lark, the father of two of his precious grandchildren. Bruce's warm heart touched the lives of many friends throughout the United States.

True to his compassionate nature, Bruce served as a volunteer with the Carroll County Ambulance Service and was a member of the Walnut Valley Sportsman Club.

To honor Bruce's life and legacy, a visitation will be held at Carrollton United Methodist Church on Saturday, December 9, 2023. The visitation will begin at 11:00 AM followed by a Celebration of Life ceremony at 1:00 PM at the church with the Rev. Devin Olachea officiating the service. The church is located at 310 Highland Ave in Carrollton, Kentucky. 

Bruce Campbell will forever be remembered as a devoted husband and father who radiated kindness, intelligence, and warmth to everyone around him. His adventurous spirit and love for nature have left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have known him. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the incredible life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.