Bruce Hess

Bruce Ralph Hess, 64, formerly of Reading, of Ft. Myers, FL, passed from this life on Saturday March 16, 2013.

Born in Reading on December 21, 1948, he was the son of Rose (Gaspari) Hess, who died March 14, 2011, and Earl J. Hess, who died December 12, 1966.

Bruce is survived by his wife, Shirley Stiles, and his children Christopher Hess and Andrea (Hess) Thompson; his son-in-law, Homer Thompson; his granddaughter, Makenzie Thompson, and one sister, Rita (Hess) Pompiano. Bruce is also survived by a host of loving family and friends.

Bruce spent his years as an educator, coach and in the insurance industry in claims and sales. After more than 10 years as owner of an Allstate agency in Tamaqua, PA, he retired from business and returned to his first love: teaching and coaching. One of his many rewards was seeing the smiles on the faces of his students and athletes when they shared some personal moment of glory.

He was also a member of the Marine Reserves for many years, having been a Marine was a great source of personal pride for him.

Bruce's greatest pride and legacy were his children. He always held, above all else, a deep and sincere love for his children. He was a loving and devoted father who spent his life trying to do what was best for his family. Bruce loved life and took every opportunity to seize each moment.

Bruce held a master's degree in education; and he was employed as a teacher, coach and athletic trainer for IDA Baker High School, in Florida. He was an avid Nebraska Husker Fan and was a member of the Elks in Tamaqua.

Relatives and friends may extend their sympathy and respects to Bruce's family on Monday, March 25, 2013, from 8:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. at the Kopicki-Bradley Funeral Home Inc., 239 South Ninth Street, Reading 19602. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church, 237 Franklin Street, Reading 19602. Interment will follow in Gethsemane Cemetery, Muhlenberg Twp.

It has been suggested by the family that in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in memory of Bruce R. Hess to The American Heart Association, 610 Community Way, Lancaster PA 17603.