Obituary of David M. Bruce

David M. Bruce, age 58 (he would have been 59, but he was sick for a year) of Halfmoon, passed away suddenly on Thursday, August 23, 2018. Born August 10, 1960, he was the son of the late Patricia Ann Bruce.

David said his life really began when he married the love of his life, Joan, on October 17, 1982. Together with their 3 kids, they moved to Cape Cod in 1983 where David was a chef in several prominent restaurants including The Wayside Inn and The Daniel Webster Inn. David and Joan ultimately opened The Break Away Café, a Chatham favorite with lines out the door for his famous buttermilk pancakes and New England clam chowder.

In 1994, he traded his chef’s knives for power tools until 2001 when his wife – his favorite “snappy dish” – convinced him that inn-keeping would be “so much fun” and they bought The Tern Inn in Harwich. With the help of the most gracious and generous God, they enjoyed 15 wonderful years as innkeepers.

In 2015, David and Joan relocated to Halfmoon, NY to spend more time with family. David reestablished Dave’s CPR, a home maintenance company, and joined the Capital District Senior Softball League, which, coming in second only to his family, was the other love in his life until his final moments. He loved music of all kinds and every old movie ever made. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and Denver Broncos.

David is survived by his wife Joan, sons Christopher (Jennifer) Millea, and Matthew (Lori) Millea, daughters Kate (Jason) Seale, Emily (Jonathan) Simmons, and Patricia Bruce. He is also survived by grandchildren whom he adored; Ethan, Aaron, Luke, Meghan, Joshua, Juniper and Madelyn. In addition to his mother, he was predeceased by his infant son, Peter Anthony, and by his favorite mother-in-law, Jane Potrikus. Also surviving are siblings Valerie, Scott and Dennis, and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and teammates.

Although David will “not be down for breakfast”, he will continue to watch over us all. See you ‘round, donut!

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, August 28 from 4pm-6pm, with a memorial service to follow at 6pm at the Shenendehowa United Methodist Church, 971 Route 146 in Clifton Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Richfield Springs Central School Music & Arts Boosters 93 Main Street, PO Box 631 Richfield Springs, NY 13439 or to the charity of one’s choice.