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Robert Ayers Obituary
Bruce was born in 1940 in San Francisco, CA to Dr. Robert L. And Coralee Ayers. They lived briefly in the Philippines before returning to California at the onset of WWII. Bruce grew up in Marysville, CA and graduated from Marysville High School in 1957. He served in both the USAF and the USMC. He then went on to attend both Sacramento State and Chico State Universities where his studies focused on anthropology and history.
Bruce lived in several cities throughout beautiful Northern California during his life including San Francisco, Placerville, Marysville, Chico, San Jose, Arcata, Redding, and finally, Live Oak.
Bruce was an avid and prolific reader and historian. He collected books about WWII and acquired several interesting Civil War and Native American artifacts including swords, blankets, and many baskets. He was a gifted gardener, enjoyed golfing, and was an enthusiastic duck and pheasant hunter.
Bruce is survived by his only daughter Kendra (William) Ayers O'Dwyer and two grandchildren, Aoife and Tristan, of San Francisco, CA; ex-wife Judy Craft, of Palo Cedro, CA; sister Karen (Lanny) Connel, of Palo Alto, CA; nieces Sherri Saber, Terri Ayers, and Tamlin Connel; nephew Liam Connel; as well as several grand nieces and grand nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his nephew Allan Connel, and his younger brother Lance Ayers.
In lieu of a formal service, a donation will be made in his name to the Swords to Plowshares organization, whose mission is to help and heal our veterans in need, restoring their dignity, hope, and self sufficiency. Please visit www.swords-to-plowshares.org, look for the "ways to give" link, and select "Honor & Memorial Giving" to make a donation in memory of Robert Bruce Ayers.
Condolences can be mailed to Kendra O'Dwyer, 463 Naples St., San Francisco, CA 94112.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3 Entries
Laura Gilbeau 'spoiled brat'
April 20, 2025
Dear Kendra and family:
I knew your dad 'back in the day' when we were bartenders together in Live Oak. So many fun stories with my friend Bruce. He was a lot of fun and a truly good man. I'm glad we knew each other when we were young and crazy, before we had to grow up and be adults. So very sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Laura Gilbeau
Your dad and the bar called me "Brat"
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Suzanne O'Dwyer
October 17, 2024
Sincere condolences to the Kendra, Aoife Tristan, Bill , Karen & all of Bruce's extended family & Friends. Our thoughts are with you all at this sad time.
Margaret, Claire, Suzanne, Edmund, Carol and your extended O'Dwyer Family in Ennis County Clare.
Dennis
October 17, 2024
His cousin Regan, my daughter Sarah and myself all send our condolences to Kendra, Karen and their families. I have over 50 years knowing Bruce, his wisecrack humor and friendship. Regan knew him best and loved him dearly. We all will miss him.
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