Bruce Michael Chadwick

Bruce Michael Chadwick, born September 10, 1946, in Muskegon, Michigan, passed away Thursday January 16th 2025, surrounded by his family at home in Great Falls, Virginia. Bruce lived a life defined by love, resilience, and dedication to those he cherished. Bruce met Norlene, at Oakland University and it was love at first sight. In 1969, Bruce married the love of his life, Norlene Kaye Smith. Together, they celebrated 55 wonderful years of marriage, building a family and life full of laughter, love, and cherished memories.
Bruce is survived by his wife, Norlene Chadwick; brother, Thomas (Karen) Chadwick, Muskegon, MI; his three children, Ashley Gilchrist of Great Falls, VA, Ryan (Kate) Chadwick of Port Townsend, WA, and Megan (Jordan) Calderwood of Moseley, VA; and his eight adored grandchildren: Bruce, Roy, and Rose Gilchrist (Ashley); Rowan and Vivienne Chadwick (Ryan); and Chadwick, Annora, and Malachi Calderwood (Megan). Known as "Bapa" he found immense joy in his grandchildren, always finding creative and meaningful ways to connect and play with them. They were truly his pride and joy. He is also the beloved "Uncle Bruce" to nieces and nephews; Carey (Jean) Rakich, Peter (Tina) Chadwick, Sally (John) Loftis, Valerie Chadwick, and Amy (Roger) LaVigne.
Bruce was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Chadwick; his mother, Agnes "Sally" Chadwick; his father-in-law, Norman Smith; his mother-in-law, Renee Smith; and his nephew, Loren Rakich, and many of his close friends.
Bruce earned his B.A. in Political Science from Oakland University in Rochester Michigan. He attended the University of Michigan Law School, where he laid the foundation for a distinguished legal career. Moving to the Washington D.C. area, he began his legal career at the Federal Trade Commission. He then went into private practice where he was a highly regarded Senior Partner at the law firm Arnold and Porter. Recognized for his many achievements, he was most proud of his tireless advocacy and defense on behalf of the American Red Cross throughout the AIDS crisis. He represented many high-profile clients including Henry Kissinger, Dick Clark, and Zbigniew Brzezinski. He was widely regarded for his sharp legal mind and professional excellence- more important to him was the reputation he forged over many decades for his kindness and compassion, his unwavering integrity and his commitment to his clients.
Bruce courageously lived with Multiple Sclerosis for over three decades, facing the challenges of the disease with unparalleled grace, strength, stability and a healthy dose of dry humor. His resilience and positive spirit inspired all who knew him. An avid learner and perfectionist, Bruce continually pressed the boundaries of his paralysis and limitations. After retiring, he became a celebrated home chef, colored pencil artist, birder, chess master, and author. During COVID, he documented his life story and philosophical thoughts with extraordinary prose in a book published for his family, leaving behind a treasured legacy of his journey.
Bruce was soft spoken, but his words carried loudly for all who listened. He will be remembered for his deep love for his family, enduring strength, integrity and the generosity he shared with all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of family and the many people whose lives he impacted.