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Matthew Bruce Obituary
Northborough - Matthew R. "Matt" Bruce, 26, passed away Friday, March 21st 2014, surrounded by his loving family and many friends after a long courageous battle with ALS.
Matt was born in Framingham, on July 10th 1987, the first child of James R. and Natalie M. (McKinley) Bruce. He grew up in Northborough and graduated from Algonquin High School, class of 2005 where he played on the hockey team. After graduation, Matt enrolled in the Funeral Service program at Mount Ida College earning his degree in 2007. He then went on to apprentice with the Hays Funeral Home in Northborough, and Rand-Harper-Pickering Funeral Home in Westborough. In 2011, Matt joined the staff of Mercadante Funeral Home in Worcester.
In May 2013, Matt was diagnosed with a rare form of ALS, not normally found in young adults. In the face of such a devastating diagnosis, this exceptional young man lived his life fully, actively and vibrantly. He continued to work, play, travel, drive, laugh and love until March 21st when his journey ended. Matt was an inspiration to all those fighting the disease that has no cure.
Matt was a fan of the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics and most particular the Bruins. During one of his last visits to the TD Garden, the Bruins organization saluted him. He loved the outdoors, fishing, hunting and off-roading. Music was a particular passion and was a frequent concert-goer. Most of all, Matt reveled in the company of family and friends at some of his favorite night-spots in Worcester, Westborough, and Northborough or just at home. This past fall, Matt realized a life-long dream to travel widely throughout Europe thanks to the generous contributions of many caring friends and family.
He was a member of Saint Luke the Evangelist Church in Westborough, the Westborough Knights of Columbus and the Massachusetts Funeral Directors Association.
Matt is survived by the people he loved so much; His parents, James and Natalie; brother, Andrew "AJ", sister, Lauren; his paternal Grandmother, Sybil C. (Bishop) Bruce; Many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members and friends; His maternal grandparents, James and Helen (Frank) McKinley and paternal grandfather, Robert Bruce pre deceased him.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit with Matt's family, Wednesday, March 26th from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Worcester. His Celebration of Life funeral mass will be held Thursday, March 27th at 10:30 am in St. Luke the Evangelist Church, 70 West Main Street, Westborough. (please go directly to church). Burial in St Luke's Cemetery will follow. The family requests that flowers be omitted and remembrances of Matt may be made in his name to the Compassionate Care ALS Foundation, P.O. Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574 (www.ccals.org) or the UMASS ALS Champion Fund, Umass Medicine Development Office, 333 South St. Shrewsbury, MA.
www.mercadantefuneral.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Matthew Bruce
Sponsored by His "brotha", Michael J. Farrow.
Linda Mastro
March 16, 2025
Thinking of you. Be at peace.
Kathy Reilly
March 16, 2025
Thinking of your family!
Bruce Terry
March 16, 2025
Time flies but the memories are forever. Love to the family
Bruce Terry
March 16, 2024
Another year gone by. A.J. he would be so proud of you and your sister. GOD bless your family. Please give my regards. Bruce Terry
Kathy and Bruce Reilly
March 16, 2024
Thinking of you Natalie, Jim and your family! Sending hugs and much love!
Linda
March 18, 2023
Natalie and Jim God please you both. Thinking and praying for your family.
bruce terry
March 18, 2023
Every spring I think of Matt and his wonderful family. Love to you all.
Kathy Reilly
March 16, 2023
Thinking of you both...Jim and Natalie! Sending hugs and prayers!
Gaetano
March 17, 2022
Thoughts and prayers to the family , miss you Matt, Go Bruins !
Melissa Orlando
March 16, 2022
Always thinking of sweet Matt. Always in my heart.
Sending love in remembrance to you all xo
Kathy Reilly
March 16, 2021
Jim and Natalie.... thinking of you and your family.... sending much love and hugs!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Gail Forsberg
March 16, 2021
Matt was the sweetest guy. He always had a smile and hug for me when I saw him. His kindness when my Dad died was such a comfort. He will always be missed.
Bruce Terry
March 16, 2021
Sending prayers and love to the family.
Michael J. Farrow
March 22, 2020
If you asked me how many times youve crossed my mind, I would say once because you never really left. Its hard to believe its been 6 years since you have been gone.
Gail Forsberg
March 17, 2020
Matt was the sweetest guy. He always had a smile on his face. We miss him. Our thoughts are with Jim, Natalie, AJ, and Lauren. Sending hugs.
Bruce Terry
March 17, 2020
Great guy. I still miss seeing his family at OBriens five and ten. I hope you all are well. Every spring I pause and think about Matt.
joanne kasper-dunne
March 16, 2020
I'm sure you still miss your son and brother very much. My heart goes out to you. I see in the picture of him here that he had a beautiful smile. I'm so sorry you lost him so young.
Mark Gerardi
March 16, 2020
The pain of Matt not being here is just as much as the day he passed, the years go by so fast but he is always in my thoughts and his antics will always bring a smile Love Mark
Linda Mastro
March 16, 2019
Such a handsome young man. He is in a better place. I pray for all of you who he left.
Faris Casten
March 16, 2019
To The Bruce Family,
I miss Matt everyday! He is in my prayers daily. While working for David Pickering, he always greeted me with his kindness, and his dry sense of humor! ALS is a very devastating disease and it took his life so young. Matt left this world with his legacy. May God hold you close , Matt . I miss you! With Love, Faris
Bruce Terry
March 16, 2019
He lived a short life but got the most out of it. My heart still breaks every March 21st but just knowing spring arrives is a perfect tribute for someone so alive every day he had on this earth. His entire family is so nice. GOD BLESS them all.
Michael J. Farrow
June 30, 2014
Matt your presence is sorely missed.....it still seems unreal. You were such a wonderful person with a ready smile and a wonderful sense of humor blended with your sarcastic wit. You always spoke your mind. I have so many memories that I will hold dear as I know I will never meet another person like you and we had some really great and some very interested experiences. I know so many people relied on your guidance-you had a insight and a way of drawing people out of their shell.
Time has been cut short for you but your light still remains in the memories and souls of all the people you helped or influenced. Thank you for being a great co-worker, friend and "brotha".
March 29, 2014
After reading all the entries, a common theme comes shining through. Although you cannot change what happens to you in life, you can choose your response. Matt, you responded to ALS with dignity and courage and a sense of humor. What a wonderful example you were to others facing those challeges. May you rest in God's light until we meet again, my friend.I will miss that beautiful smile!
Jon Revelli
March 28, 2014
Jim and Family,
I was just informed that you lost Matt. My deepest sympathies and condolences to you and your family.
Zeynep
March 28, 2014
You will be missed. God has a special place for you. Love you cousin! Rest in peace
March 27, 2014
What can i say about Matt. he was such an important part of all our lived here at the funeral home. He made us laugh so much it was what we all needed at times. His Optimism during this illness is something that i've never seen before. Right up until the end he was a positive force. Maybe thats why i don"t even believe he's not with us. In fact though after the pouring out of love and respect thatwas shown to Matt and his family, Hi s light of life will shine on for many years to come. They say a person never dies or is forgotten untill the last person they knew is gone!! OMG that will be years and years to come! Matt we all love you and will miss you terribly, but i know you are here all around us!! Sleep well till we see each other again!! love Mark Gerardi
Ashley Powers
March 27, 2014
Matt was always one of the nicest people I knew. I am so grateful I was able to make some unforgettable memories with him while in college. He has inspired so many people and has touched the lives of everyone that was fortunate to meet him. I wish I could be there today, but I am sending all my love and support to the whole Bruce family during this difficult time.
Nancy , Michael and Devan Proctor
March 27, 2014
A.J., and family,
We are sorry for your loss.
Nancy Dragon
March 26, 2014
Jimmy, Natalie, Sybil, Darlene and families.............. Such a wonderful person from a wonderful family taken way too soon. Wishing you all strength and peace during this horrific time.
Much love, the Richards
Lynn Garry
March 26, 2014
With respect and sympathy to Matt's parents. You raised him to be the wonderful human being he became. My thoughts and prayers to all the Bruce family and those who loved him.
Phillip Short
March 26, 2014
Matt
May you rest in peace. You will not be forgotten. While your life may have been too short, your years were well lived. You were a good friend to all.
Hillary Hamilton Bogard
March 26, 2014
Jim, Natalie and Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful son Matt. May you find comfort with all of your good memories.
My Deepest sympathy to you all.
Dwight Watson
March 26, 2014
To Matt's family. I worked with Matt quite often. He had a lot to offer our profession. I. My fellow funeral service providers and the families Matt served will miss him very much. My deepest sympathies to all of you.
Sue Bard
March 26, 2014
There are just NO WORDS to express the sadness in all of our hearts after hearing of Matt's passing! I will miss your "Thumbs up" attitude. RIP Matt.
Maria Stephanos
March 26, 2014
Matt, you came into our Fox world and left us grateful and humbled by your strength. We will miss you. And I will miss the beautiful light in your eyes.
Pastor John Taylor
March 26, 2014
Our deepest prayers are with the Bruce family. Matt lived a life of faith and love. Though he lived too short of a life- his life was profound and meaningful as he was an inspiration to all of us. His courage and graciousness will never be forgotten. ALS did not win. Matt lives on with Jesus in Heaven and in our hearts. In Christ, Pastor John Wesley Taylor and the First United Methodist Church family in Westborough
Maryann, Jim and Nicole Beauregard
March 26, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Bruce family. Matt will be missed by everyone he knew and will never be forgotten.
Donna and Paul Vincequere
March 26, 2014
To the Bruce family, our sincerest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Michael Drummey
March 26, 2014
My sympathy to the entire Bruce family. Although his years here were few, he had a immense impact on us all.
March 26, 2014
Matt may you be at peace, you'll never be forgotten!!
-AS-
Pam Vickers-Cardillo
March 26, 2014
Jimmy extending our deepest sympathy and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. Matt sounds like an exceptional man and loved by many.
Gaetano Monopoli
March 25, 2014
Matt, you will be missed,you were an inspiration to me,when I go through the trials of life I will draw strength just by thinking of you. Thank you Matt,may God bless the Bruce family. R.I.P. my friend.
Caren
March 25, 2014
Though I only knew Matt as an acquaintance a few years ago, I was saddened to hear of his passing. He was a kind and compassionate young man who was very easy to get along with. Please accept my sincere condolences at this difficult time.
G.R. Beauchamp
March 25, 2014
and in the blink of someone else's eye, you were gone. taken. a lifetime was still a lifetime too short. and all the words unsaid, set adrift, nowhere to anchor. suddenly the days were free from time. gone away as quietly as you arrived. never got to say GOOD-BYE, taken from us in the blink of someone else's eye......
Libby & Gerald Tomaiolo
March 25, 2014
Matt, We will never forget you!
We will always be thinking about you until we see you again.
Love Libby and Jerry
Adriane Gilder
March 25, 2014
Dear Jim, Natalie, AJ, Lauren, Sybil, and extended family. The Good Lord has one of the tallest strongest new trees to add to his garden filled with love and compassion.
March 25, 2014
Dear Natalie,
My heart is heavy with sadness at the loss of your son, Matthew. What an inspirational and remarkable human being you brought into this world. May he rest in peace and may memories sustain you and bring comfort to your family.
Laura (Esper) Bennett
JoAnne Kasper-Dunne
March 25, 2014
I am so sorry for your heartbreaking loss. He seems to have been an extraordinary young man, with many who loved him. I wish you all comfort and peace in this sad time.
Your Northgate Friends
March 25, 2014
Our deepest condolences to the Bruce family. Please know we are all thinking of you and wish you peace during this very hard time. God bless Matt.
a mom
March 25, 2014
So sorry for the loss of your beautiful boy.After reading what everyone has t say about him you were truly blessed to have had him in your life. May he fly with the angels and be welcomed above with open arm's. I wish peace and strength for his family
Tim Agnew
March 25, 2014
Thoughts and prayers with the whole Bruce Family.
March 25, 2014
Please accept my most sincere sympathies for your loss. I did not know Matt personally, but I teach at Mount Ida and saw how my students were distraught hearing of Matt's death. I hope his life and all the joy he brought to those who knew and loved him will bring you comfort and peace as you embark on this journey.
Kind regards,
Diane Moran, Mount Ida College
Andrea Fierimonte
March 25, 2014
Jim, Natalie, AJ and Lauren,
There are no words to express how deeply saddened we were to hear of Matt's passing. He was such a kind and loving soul who always had a way of making you smile. His positive energy and zest for life was just so incredible. Matt was one of my first friends I made here. I can honestly say, I'm truly a better person having known him. Our thoughts, prayers, and blessings will be with all of you now and forever. With deepest sympathy and much love.
Cara Johnson
March 25, 2014
Extending our deepest sympathy to the Bruce family for your profound loss. You are all in our thoughts. Cara & David Johnson .
Beth Grady
March 25, 2014
Jimmy, Natalie, Aj and Lauren: We are so sorry about Matt's passing. He was a true inspiration to all. May you find strength in knowing that you're surrounded by so many people who care about you.
Beth and Peter Grady
Tim Barry
March 25, 2014
There was an empty spot in my heart till a 10 year old ran through my mind ( I assume on his way to break something in heaven)and told me everything was okay. Brought me some peace, may it do the same for you.
Eric
March 25, 2014
I am deeply sorry your loss. Although I did not know Matt personally, I felt like I knew him through the stories that his friend Tommy told me. The positivity and active way of life he maintained throughout his battle is truly an inspiration to me. His story really touched the core of many people. To be that mentally and physically strong is truly a testament to the man Matt was. He is certainly in a better place now. I will always remember how he touched my life. His family and friends have my condolences.
Veronica Johnson
March 25, 2014
May the peace that surpasses all understanding be with you, Natalie & Jim and all your family.
March 25, 2014
Bruce family, our thoughts and prayers are will you all!!! Bishop/Dube family
Jim & Ashleigh Erickson
March 25, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bruce family. Matt was a true inspiration to us all and he will be greatly missed.
Melissa Orlando
March 25, 2014
Natalie, Jim, A. J. and Lauren,
We are so, so sad.
I first met Matty when I was a florist in Westborough delivering flowers to David Pickering's funeral home not knowing that Matty was Natalie's son. I remember when he was born and couldn't believe the passage of time in seeing this young man so grown and working in a field that encompasses so much compassion and care.
Matty's constant beautiful smile eased the grief I know, for so many as we said goodbye to loved ones and friends.
I was so touched when David gave his hearse for my dad's journey to his final resting place and even more so when it was Matty driving. Just seeing his smile and gentle manner that day will remain with me always.
Matt made a difference in his sweet and subtle way and we are all grateful for this, and at the same time brokenhearted to lose him.
With love and tearful sympathy to you all as you face this final goodbye to your son and brother.
Rest in Peace Matty......you truly made a difference.
Melissa Orlando and Family
Dennis Callahan
March 25, 2014
Jim and family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Hoping that peace comes and keeps Matt's spirit alive.
March 25, 2014
Dear Natalie and Jim,
We were so very sad to hear of your loss of dear Matt. He will always stay in our hearts as one of our family. We are in Florida but know that we are thinking and praying for you and the whole family. In sympathy,
Bob and Gail Claflin
Liz Biehl & Family
March 25, 2014
Extending our deepest sympathy to the Bruce family. Remembering many fond memories from our days together at Proctor school and beyond. Matt's radiant spirit and zest for life will live on in all of us whose lives he's touched. Our healing thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Bruce Terry
March 25, 2014
Sometimes it is not the length of life we live but what we do with the time we are given.Matt is an inspiration for all of us.Your friends at OBriens five and ten will always remember that smile of yours and how you approached each day.love you Bruce,Linda,Sue and Moe
Joanne Cranston
March 25, 2014
AJ and the Bruce family, my deepest sympathies for your loss. Many prayers are with you. May the loving memories of Matt comfort you.
Heidi Biehl
March 25, 2014
You are all in my prayers. Will always remember Matt sitting on the floor at Proctor listening to me read to his class. So cute!
Paula
March 25, 2014
I was touched by his story I has seen in the paper not that long ago. He is a true inspiration to many. My deepest condolences to you all. May you find peace and strength during this difficult time.
T Bishop
March 25, 2014
Luv u cuz !!!!!!
Larry and Donna Manduke
March 24, 2014
To the Bruce family-
So sorry for your loss of Matt A strong brave young man, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
John & Judy Hegarty
March 24, 2014
Natalie and Jim - So sorry for the loss of a great guy and fellow Knight.
Rest in peace Matt
Christos Hamawi
March 24, 2014
Dear AJ, Lauren, and Mr. & Mrs. Bruce:
My deepest sympathies and condolences. I didn't know Matthew well, but the strength, courage, and wisdom he displayed under such difficult circumstances left such a powerful legacy of an inspiring and remarkable man. I can see why AJ looked up to him so much. May we continue to celebrate his life and keep him and his spirit alive by taking his advice to enjoy our lives, never give up, and never take life for granted. Sending lots of love and strength your way.
Julie Leach
March 24, 2014
Natalie, I am so sorry for your loss. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Donna Dearden Bachand
March 24, 2014
Deepest sympathy to you all of you. Matt was a wonderful young man with a kind & generous heart, this comes from being raised by loving, devoted parents & having a brother & sister who love each other unconditionally. I pray that you all find smiles & strength from memories of all you shared. Matt will be carried in the hearts of so many. Love & hugs
Jim Edwards
March 24, 2014
To the entire Bruce family,
Matt was such an inspiration for everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Please be assured that the "angels led him into Paradise" on Friday evening & the good and all-merciful Lord wrapped His arms around him. Matt, may you "requiescat in pace" forever, friend. You will never be forgotten.
March 24, 2014
to the Bruce family, Matt was a kind, funny, and a gentle soul praying for all of you at this difficult time there are no word that can bring much peace but Matt was such an inspiration to all. thoughts and prayers Alice Macconnell
The Theve Family
March 24, 2014
We are sending our thoughts, prayers and strength to all of you. Matt will always be an inspiration to everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him. God Bless you all!
Brittany (Forsberg) Barrio
March 24, 2014
I feel very lucky to have gone to school with Matt growing up. He was always so kind and always made a point to say "hi" to everyone. His strength and courage will forever remind to always appreciate life. My thoughts and prayers are with the Bruce family.
Debbie Atchue
March 24, 2014
Dear Natalie, So sorry to hear of your son's passing thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
March 24, 2014
Jim, Natalie, AJ and Lauren, my deepest and heartfelt condolences to all of you. I'm so very sorry to hear of Matt's passing. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Karen Farragher
March 24, 2014
To the Bruce Family.
I am so very sorry for the loss of Matt,he was a wonderful young man.
Regards
Lydia Goldblatt
Tiffany Paloukos
March 24, 2014
My deepest condolences go out to the Bruce family in this time of need. Prayers are with you all. Rest in sweetest peace in the arms of God, Matt. You will be missed by many <3
Kathy Reilly
March 24, 2014
Bruce and Natalie and family,
We are so very sad and sorry...There are just no words.... We pray that God will keep you and comfort you now and forever as you go through these most difficult times. Much love and prayers, Kathy and Bruce Reilly
Kevin Kieler
March 24, 2014
To the Bruce Family - It was a privage to have known Matt and had time to spend with him in the last year. He was a true inspiration to me and my family. You are in my thoughts and prayers every day. Kevin Kieler
Kylie Johnson
March 24, 2014
To the Bruce family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Matt was an inspiration to all of us and I will always admire his "never give up" attitude.
Karen Pantazis
March 24, 2014
Jim , Natalie, Aj and Lauren know that I think about you every day. You are and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Love you all! <3 <3 <3
March 24, 2014
Phyl & Ronnie Fiske &Family want to send our deepest sympathy to the Bruce Family> Rest In Peace Matt you will be missed forever
Joanne Garry-Pevna
March 24, 2014
To the Bruce family...My heart aches for your loss. I am so beyond sorry. The love and support Matt received as well as for all of you says so much about all of you. Sending love and hope for peace for all of you...
Faris Casten
March 24, 2014
God needed another angel so He called upon you, you were and always will be the brightest star in heaven. you will be missed forever. you are an inspiration to me for your courage, compassion and zest for life, you go and shine on.
Faris Casten
March 24, 2014
God needed another angel so He called upon you, you were and always will be the brightest star in heaven. you will be missed forever. you are an inspiration to me for your courage, compassion and zest for life, you go and shine on.
kathy kivlehan
March 24, 2014
i will never forget his beautiful smile and the courage he showed throughout his
illness. Thank you Matt for coming into my life. I will never forget you. Rest in
peace Matt. My deepest and heartfelt
sympathy to Jim,Natalie, A.J. and Lauren.
Kirstyn Connors
March 24, 2014
My heart goes out to your family from mine, you are all in my prayer.
Ann Messersmith Spinner
March 24, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with you Natalie and your entire family. May you keep wonderful memories of your times together to bring you peace.
Jennie Kass
March 24, 2014
Matt I will never forget at the Cape house last summer you were leaning against the fence just watching the water and the boats go thru the canal you were so relaxed... God Bless you.
Mary Lou Scott
March 24, 2014
Natalie and family, my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. God Bless and comfort you at this difficult time.
Katelyn McDevitt
March 24, 2014
I am so happy that I was able to grow up with Matt, Lauren & AJ. The Bruce family is very close to me and I can't come to terms with the loss that has happened. I will always remember swimming in their pool, going camping, and riding bikes with the Bruces.
I love you Matt, I'll always be thinking of you. May you rest in peace and watch over all of us.
Hopkinton Police Department
March 24, 2014
Jim, Natalie and the Bruce family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May the loving memories of Matt comfort you.
Jimmy Hughes
March 24, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with the Bruce family, Matt was an inspiration to us all, I'm lucky enough to have been able to meet him and call him my friend. "Never Give up" will live in me forever.
The Cashman Family
March 23, 2014
Our sincere condolences to the Bruce family. We are praying for peace and comfort for you.
Donna Perron-Renaud
March 23, 2014
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the lose of Matt. I will miss his smile on facebook. His grace reminded me to find my own...
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