Bruce Samuel Colbert

1956 - 2016

BRUCE COLBERT Bruce Colbert, age 60, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2016 in Riverside, California. Bruce was born on May 21, 1956 in Pensacola, Florida to Jean (Highley) Colbert and Col. A. B. Colbert (Ret.). He was charming, personable, and very creative with an adventurous spirit that led him to continually explore new roads and trails. Bruce graduated from Woodbridge Senior High School in Woodbridge, Virginia, attended James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia and received an Associate of Arts degree from Taft College, where he was photography editor of the yearbook. Always interested in expanding his knowledge, he also attended San Francisco State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and most recently Yavapai College in Prescott, Arizona from which he received an Associate of Applied Science in Social and Human Services. Bruce spent 10 years in the U.S. Army and U.S. Army National Guard, where he graduated from Jump School and Ranger School, the Army's premier raiding force. He served in the 24th Infantry Division, retiring as a Captain. Bruce held a variety of other jobs including 17 years as a Corrections Officer at California Men's Colony in San Luis Obispo and as the owner of Good Life Photography. However, he considered himself first and foremost a photographer and journalist and over the years worked as a stringer for the San Francisco Examiner, at the Paso Robles Daily Press, and Big Bug Canyon Country News and The Daily Courier in Prescott, Arizona. He received multiple journalism and photography awards. Bruce loved all outdoor activities including biking, hiking and camping. One of the highlights of his life was in 2014 when he spent six weeks hiking 500 miles across northern Spain on the Camino de Santiago. He shared his spiritual and fascinating journey with family and friends through his photographs and commentary on Facebook, and returned home having gained friends from around the world. He is survived by his parents; sister Cathy Colbert; brother Chris Colbert (Sindy), and his dog Max. Burial will be at Riverside National Cemetery. In remembrance of Bruce, please consider donations to the Wounded Warriors Project or Disabled America Veterans.