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BORN
1937
DIED
2008
Bruce Pence Obituary
Bruce A. Pence Sr., 71, of Ventura, a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away Oct. 10, 2008, after a lengthy illness.
Bruce was born Jan. 19, 1937, in Ogden, Utah.
He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Patricia Rae Pence; sons, Bruce A. Pence Jr. and Michael P. Pence, both of Ventura; stepfather, Pete Boldt of Arvada, Colo.; sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Ralph Phillips of Grass Valley, Calif.; and grandchildren, Tiffany A. Pence, Marcus I. Pence, Cassandra A. Pence, Jackson M. Pence and Bruce A. Pence III.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert A. Pence, and mother, Arlene A. Boldt.
A funeral service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, 6300 Telephone Road, with Pastor James Ayars officiating. Interment will follow at Conejo Mountain Memorial Park, 2052 Howard Road, Camarillo.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bruce Pence
James T. Haney
March 15, 2025
Dr.Pence was a wonderful friend of ours going back to the 70,s and also was our dentist for a while also.my wife and I knew he was a smart man when we first met him at the Oxnard seventh day Adventist church! And his beautiful wife pat pence. Both dedicated people to their church and church family.Bruce was the kind of dad that I wish I had grown up with.but one thing I do know .... That Dr. pence and wife will be in heaven upon the second coming! We can't wait to see him and Pat again.lovevalways Mary &Jim Haney
Amit Batheja
October 10, 2023
Miss you Dr Pence, you and Pat remain in my heart, will post a picture later! Lots of love to Pat
Alma Baum
November 14, 2008
Dear Pat and family,
I am writing this for Lloyd. Bruce and Lloyd enjoyed many good times together at the Pie place before Bruce left for home. I am sure they had lots of laughs together. Lloyd picked the best man, Bruce, to carry on the IDP program which always had a special place in their hearts. Soon they will be able to carry on their conversation in a world that will never end. Love you guys, Alma and Lloyd
Katherine Albrecht
November 12, 2008
Thank you for you have done for me. I will miss Uncle Bruce. His easy and contagious smile always made me feel better. I hope that I can be as great a help in your time of need as you have been to me in mine.
Esther Chantal Ngo Bikoi
November 4, 2008
Dear Patt and Family
Dr Pence to me was more than just a teacher but a listener, an advisor and a father figure. I first met Dr Pence when I attended Loma Linda in 1999 as an IDP internship and I was coming all the way from Cameroon. I had very little knowledge about the culture, language or society. Dr Pence took me under his wings and took time to teach me and make sure I comprehended the information taught in his class. He made sure I had all the materials I needed for his class and he was always interested and willing to listen to anything I told him. Dr. Pence left a lasting imprint in my heart and he will always be there. He will be greatly missed and always loved. My mother Mispa, my family and I send out greatest condoleances.
Sandra (Smith) Cox
October 29, 2008
Our family's thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. Bruce was one of my good friends at Glendale Academy all through our high school years, and a friend and fellow "Motator Club" member of my first husband, Norton Couron. We often double-dated, and he was best man at our wedding. As young marrieds we, along with Bruce and Patt, had many happy times together camping, at picnics, parties and other social gatherings. Bruce was always so much fun and had the best sense of humor! The first gold crown Bruce ever made at Loma Linda School of Dentistry still resides in my mouth after some 45 years, which speaks to his meticulous detail and craftsmanship. He became our family dentist after moving to Ventura and opening his practice in Oxnard. My children have fond memories of his kindness to them in the dental chair when they were afraid of a procedure, and afterwards playing with the Great Danes and other dogs at Bruce and Patt's house. After moving away from Southern California there were many years we did not see each other. Our class reunions of 2003 and 2005 gave us a chance to get together once again and renew old ties. Bruce was a good friend, a wonderful dentist, and a fine man. He will be greatly missed.
John and Beverley Whittaker
October 28, 2008
Dear Pat
Thank you for inviting me to be part of the Celebration of Bruce`s Life.
Bruce was to me a successfull dentist with inivative idears and compasonate heart,a belovered teacher,a skilled leader and a dear friend.
His loss will leave a large hole in our hearts.
With Love from Beverley and John
amit batheja
October 27, 2008
Dr Pence was my director at the IDP, and remains one of my most treasured teachers. I always cherish his teachings, his sense of humor and delightful presence in my mind. He taught us all he could, with love and encouragement holding back nothing.. and I will be true to this promise of his, for as long as I practice my profession. God bless Dr Pence and Mrs Patricia Pence. Lots of love, Amit
Robert & Vonda Padilla & Family
October 27, 2008
"The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make HIS face to shine upon you and give you peace. The Lord be gracious unto you."
Joyce Barger
October 27, 2008
He will be missed as a leader and pillar of our church and church school. My prayers are with Pat and the family. May you find peace.
Mike & Ann Irving
October 21, 2008
We were so sad to hear about your great loss when we were visiting Tiffany in Phoenix. Bruce was a pillar in the community and a fine Sabbath School Instructor. We will miss him. Please accept our sincere condolences and know we will continue to have the entire family in our prayers. It is so encouraging to know we will see Bruce again when the Lord returns for those who love Him.
Norbert Rick Garcia
October 21, 2008
May God place his loving arms around you in comfort during this time of sorrow. Karen and I will keep you in our prayers during this time time of grief and always.
Lisa Jones
October 21, 2008
My deepest sympathies to my Aunt Patty and cousins Bruce, Mike, Laura, and their children. Uncle Bruce was a big man with a big personality. One could always fill his presence. This past Saturday was no exception. The Church was filled to capacity and the loving and funny memories that were shared of Uncle Bruce allowed us to fill his presence one more time. I will miss you Uncle Bruce.
Husam Kahwach
October 21, 2008
Eleanor Roosevelt once said that “You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.” When I was a student performing my first IV sedation, Dr. Pence stood quietly watching as I failed my first two attempts to find the vein. I nervously stepped away from the patient and asked Dr. Pence if he could help me. He regarded me with a small smile, said “No,” and walked away. I stood for a moment, stunned, then realized that I was going to have to rely on myself. I returned to the patient and completed a successful sedation. Any professor can lecture, any dentist can demonstrate. Dr. Pence instilled courage and confidence in his students. He taught us the lessons that we will carry with us throughout our lives.
Susan Ybarra, RDAEF
October 20, 2008
Dear Pat, Bruce Jr., Mike & Lora and all the Pence family I knew when you were all very young. I started working for "Dr. P." when I was just 19, that was 25 yrs ago and worked with him for 7 yrs. I learned so much from him that I use today. He was a great teacher and very patient with me. I will always remember the good times we all had and he will truly be missed. Please remember the big heart Dr. P had and all the people he touched.
I will always think fondly of him.
Mary French Moseanko
October 20, 2008
Dear Patti, Bruce jr, and Mike and your precious families. You will never know the great impact your father had on all of us that grew our way through the Youth Dept of Oxnard Church, under the watchful and fun loving eye of Bruce, your husband and father. He always made our trips to Lake Nacimiento and the Colorado River memorable...memorable enough with cracked ribs, bruised legs, but huge smiles on our faces from all the fun. I know his efforts kept many a young person walking the path that Jesus had prepared for them, using his humor and guidance to keep them walking. He lives large in our memories and we can't wait to see him in heaven. I know he and my folks and Uncle Jim will be rejoicing together there on the hill in Camarillo! May God richly bless you and bring you much love and good memories of your time with Bruce. I know I can hear his laugh now......
Charles Goodacre
October 20, 2008
On behalf of the entire Loma Linda University School of Dentistry family, I want to express our sadness over the passing of Bruce. We all appreciated and valued his leadership in our International Dentist Program and he impacted the lives of countless students and patients in the school of dentistry. We all look forward to the day when Jesus returns and we will be reunited, not to part again.
Darleen Pettengill
October 19, 2008
To the Pence family---I send my symaphy. I never met Bruce, but his wife is related to me. From what she has told me about him, I would have been very honored to meet him. I was so sorry to hear of his passing.
Patti--always remember the good times and I am sure there were many.
from your coz Darleen
Verla Holub
October 19, 2008
Dear Patt, Bruce Jr., and Mike & families,
I am so sorry to hear of Bruce Sr.'s passing, I had no idea he was ill, such sad and shocking news.
I remember all those years ago I met all of you while at Loma Linda and sat in that dental chair as Bruse's patient( I still have many of those gold crowns and they are still functioning!) and how much a part of your lives I was involved in while Mom worked for you those 5 years.
How time slips away, My love and memories are always with you,
With Love and remembering,
Scott Mullaley
October 19, 2008
My family's thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Pence's family at this time. Our most sincere condolences. Dr. Pence was the best dentist I had in all my years, and Lord knows I has a few.
Dawn Volsch
October 19, 2008
Dear Auntie Patt,
I will always remember the kindness and support you and Uncle Bruce showed to me when I was at college. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With much love,
Dawn and family
Kelvin and Betty Loh
October 18, 2008
To the Pence Family:
Please accept our condolence at this time of loss. I enjoyed working with Bruce for many years in many committees in our school. We will miss you. With Love Kelvin and Betty Loh
Julianna Orr
October 18, 2008
I was saddened to hear the news of the passing of Dr. Pence Sr. May I expess my sincere condolences to his loving family.
Raji Mathew
October 18, 2008
Dear Mrs Pence and family,
I am really sorry to hear that Dr. Pence is no more with us.
My prayers are with all of you in this difficult time. Dr. Pence was an excellent mentor. We loved him so much in IDP. He will be dearly missed by all IDP graduates.
( IDP, class of 2004)
Jean Daino
October 18, 2008
Dear Pat,
My love and prayers are with you and your family.
May God give you strength and enfold you in his arms and comfort you as you grieve your loving husband.
God Bless you and your family.
Jean "Cookie" Daino
Bindi Patel
October 18, 2008
Dear Mrs. Pence and Family,
Dr. Pence was an excellent mentor and has taught me to use my full potential professionally and personally. He had wonderful presence around him. He will be dearly missed by one and all. May God be with you and your family.
Pat (Benjamin) Knudson GUA '58
October 17, 2008
My dear Patt, I have always admired you and Bruce- Carol's big brother- way back to GUA days. You are entering the world I stepped into 17 months ago when my husband died. I care for your broken heart, as I know how it hurts when half of you is gone. Just remember: God is your husband now. God has been wonderful to me, has comforted me, has answered my prayers, and taken care of many of the husbandly things I didn't know how to do. He puts his arms around me every night so I can sleep. He listens to me every day, and quiets my fearful mind. He takes me from day to day, and night to night. We are closer than ever before. He has promised to be a Husband to you, so claim that promise!
Blessings, Pat Benjamin Knudson
LaNette Markay
October 17, 2008
Dear Aunt Patty,
I am so sorry that Uncle Bruce is gone. Uncle Bruce was always my favorite Uncle. Graham and I were just talking about how we still remember what he said to us on our Wedding Video "I told them not to do it, but they went ahead and did it anyways, so I wished them luck." He was always so funny and full of life! I can't wait tell we all get to heaven and I can have some more great laughs! Uncle Bruce will be missed. The Markay's sent their Condolences to you and the rest of the family. We wish we could be there. God Bless you in your time of sorrow. We will all see him soon!!! "If God brings us to it, he will bring us through it!"
Terri LeClair
October 17, 2008
Patt - Deeply saddened to hear about
Bruce - our prayers and thoughts are with
you all at this time.
Bonnie Prout - Terri LeClair - Patti Duerksen
( the three Nicholson sisters)
Sam and Sandi Geli
October 17, 2008
Bruce did so many things well and gave 100% to service for others. He was particularly good at teaching and mentoring and inspiring friends, family,and students to do their best. He loved Pat and his family very much and he will be missed by Sandi and I and others who were touched by his extraordinary life. Our prayers are with you all and we will join you tomorrow as we honor his memory.
Terry & Fred Wegand (Phillips)
October 17, 2008
Pat,
I am so grateful to you and your husband. When I first came to the Oxnard church you two made a special effort to make me feel welcome. The ski trips at the Colorado River and Lake Piru. My teenage years are full of fond memories of you and your husband. May God comfort your family at this time and knowing that the next face he will see is the face of Jesus. How wonderful that will be. We love you.
Kaaren Kinzer & Vaughan Black
October 17, 2008
Patt -- Our deepest sympathies are with you and your family. With loving memories of the old days and the Bruce, Chuck, and Ralph gang. . . .
Pat Tronson
October 17, 2008
Patt I was deeply sorry to hear Bruce had passes away. I never met him but knowing you all these years I know he was a wonderful person My deepest sympathy. Know he is not suffering now he is with our Lord.
Vernon Wagner, MD
October 17, 2008
Dear Pat,
So sorry to hear about this tragedy. Having been widowed six years ago, I know the feeling all too well. Friends said my load of grief would get lighter with time. I didn't believe them, but they were right. Our dearly departed are not suffering...only those of us who remain.
I've known you & Bruce since we were teenagers, and always admired your marital longevity. Few of us were so lucky. Your happy home has been an inspiration to many.
God bless you Pat...my dear friend, and high school classmate.
Wes Nash
October 17, 2008
Pat,
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
dr j bal
October 17, 2008
Dear Mrs Pence and family,
I am very sorry to hear about Dr Pence.He was a my mentor. He was a gem of a person .I was very blessed to have worked with Dr Pence .He used to call me-kiddo.Dr Pence was a great Dentist ,it is a great loss for the dental profession.He taught me to practice dentistry with humility and compassion.He will always be in our hearts.
Phil Roberts
October 17, 2008
Dear Patt and Family,
I was sorry to hear about the loss of Bruce. I appreciated the visits and talks I had with Bruce when I was there for a short period back in 04. He gave me good advice and he was always upfront with his thoughts and I knew where he stood. I want you to know I'm thinking of you now and praying for your comfort and peace during this time. We have a great reunion to look forward to in the near future.
Your bro. in Christ, Phil
Ernest McLean
October 17, 2008
Dr. Pence , you were a friend indeed being there when there was need. I appreciated your service as Board Chairmen for me at Linda Vista Jr. Academy. You always stood behind me in my many decisions, and was a help in giving counsel when it was needed. You will be missed by me for your great friendship.
I will be looking for you in Heaven after the Lord returns to this earth.
Until then, I know you will be given a great needed rest.
Patt, my heart goes out to you for your great loss; but be assured that you will be in my thoughts and prayers, throughout the rest of the time here on earth. I also will miss Bruce.
Norma and Dick Drisko
October 17, 2008
Our sincere condolences to all the family. The Pences have been good friends for many years. Bruce has supported his family and his God well, and we look forward to seeing him again when Jesus returns.
Norma and Dick Drisko
leslie orm
October 16, 2008
Dr pence, you were a great godsend to the dental proffession.
Debbie Moseanko/Phillips
October 16, 2008
My deepest sympathy goes out to you Pat, Bruce, Michael and family members. Its been a long time that I have been away from Oxnard but Dr. Pence was a good man and I feel honored to have known him. He was very kind and I know he is missed alot. God be with you all as you go through this hard time. The Lord feels your sadness and will comfort you.
Debbie Moseanko (Phillips)
Mark & Carol Bonner
October 16, 2008
Dear Pat & Family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. I know how much you loved Bruce. You spoke of him all the time! He will be missed by many... You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Mark & Carol
Fariba Ahmadzadeh
October 16, 2008
Dear Mrs. Pence.
I am very sorry for your loss. Dr.Pence was a great mentor. He taught me how to be a better person and how to be a better dentist. I sure miss him.
Fariba Ahmadzadeh(Zarrabi) Class of June 1998
donald addison
October 16, 2008
i cant believe this!! dr.pence was my only dentist. i called him my mad scientist??? that talked too much to his assistances etc. but his work was great with no pain ever. except when he took out my wisdom teeth he said would it will take 30 minutes for all four!!! but it took 5 hours in 2 sessions !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i think he cussed then ?????? but all was good. regina was a great sidekick and the last great too. where do i go now.!!!!!!!!!!!! this is a major loss to lots of us .be good mad scientist!!! to the pence family stay strong and toghether....
Ben Kwasney
October 16, 2008
The staff of Reide's Dental Lab would like to offer our heartfelt sympathies to Dr. Pence's family and to the staff at Pence Dental Corp.
Dr. Pence was a gracious man, always offering a kind greeting and smile when any of us would see him at his office.
We are very sorry for your loss.
With deepest condolences,
Dean, Ben and Mikey
LuCindi (Templeton) Church
October 16, 2008
To Pat, Bruce & Mike, I am so sorry to hear about Dr. Pence. I pray that the love and memories you have will help guide you during this time. I will keep you in my prayers.
Tara and Jesse Hester
October 16, 2008
Mrs. Pence,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Dr. Pence was a wonderful person and he will be missed. I pray that God will wrap his loving arms around you during this hard time and that you will find comfort.
In Christ,
Tara and Jesse Hester
Lynn Labit-Pham
October 16, 2008
Our condolences to the family and Pence Dental Group. We are patients and now our kids visit every 6 months...We will miss Dr. Pence very much.
With deepest sympathies,
Vinh, Lynn, Nicolas and Lauren Pham
Lynette Ortega
October 16, 2008
My condolences to the family and staff at the Pence Dental Office. We are patients and enjoyed our visits with Dr. Pence, we will truly miss him. Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Lynette, Frankie Jr. & Philip Ortega, & Jeff Wendland
Patricia Pence
October 16, 2008
In loving memory of my dear and most precious husband...oh, how I will miss you as I dearly loved being with you. I will always treasure the memories of our 51 years together and gift of our two sons. Remembering your strong faith in God will sustain me. I look forward to the day that Jesus comes the second time and I will meet you in that glorious event. Lovingly, Patricia
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