GLOUCESTER: H. Bruce Woodruff, 62, died unexpectedly Wednesday evening, January 21, 2009 at the Broward General Hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida following a long series of illnesses. He was the husband of Vicki (King) Woodruff.
Mr. Woodruff was born in Gloucester on October 20, 1946 to the late Harold F. and Margaret E. (Oakes) Woodruff. He was a graduate of Gloucester High School in 1964 and maintained residence in Gloucester for much of his life.
After his graduation from Gloucester High, Mr. Woodruff attended Nathaniel Hawthorne College in New Hampshire. It was during his college years that he became involved with the Civil Air Patrol in New Hampshire. From childhood, Mr. Woodruff had a passion for aviation; and during his college career, he was able to record many hours of flying and attain the necessary licenses to qualify as a commercial pilot.
Following graduation, Mr. Woodruff worked locally as an instructor at Beverly Airport, while pursuing opportunities with an airline. His first employment was with Air New England, a regional carrier in the northeast, including the Cape Cod area. In time, his ability was recognized; and he was employed by Delta Airlines. During his 30 year career with Delta, Bruce became a Senior Captain with the airline, rising to the upper level of seniority rankings. In addition, he also served as a representative to the Airline Pilots Association.
Following his retirement from Delta in 2005, Mr. Woodruff enjoyed boating and obtained his Captain’s license for local charters from both Gloucester and Florida. He will be remembered for his love of both flying and boating. He was also a member of The Tyrian-Ashler-Acacia Lodge, A.F. & A.M.
He is survived by a son, Gavin Campbell Woodruff, of Maryland, a daughter, Amy Lauren Woodruff of Georgia, a brother, Wayne Woodruff and his wife, Anita of Gloucester, and Bruce’s companion of many years, Lynn McCully of Florida and Gloucester. In addition, there are several cousins, nieces, and nephews who will remember him fondly.
His funeral services will be held on Tuesday morning in the Pike-Grondin Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester at 10 a.m.. Visiting hours will be held on Monday from 4 - 8 p.m. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in his memory to the charity of one's choice. Interment will be held in the Beechbrook Cemetery, Gloucester.