Quechee, VT – Donald "Donnie" H. Bruce, Jr., our beloved husband, Daddy, brother, Grampa, and friend passed away, age 68, much too quickly on January 14th, 2024, after fighting a short, ferocious battle with cancer.

Donnie was born on July 29, 1955, at Rutland Regional Medical Center and spent his younger years growing up in Bellows Falls, Vermont. He grew up with a love for fishing, spending many long days with childhood friends exploring rivers, lakes and streams, always hoping to catch the next big one. He graduated from Bellows Falls Union High School, class of 1973, where he was an Honor Roll Student, a member of the National Honor Society, and a star basketball player.

After high school, Donnie attended Lyndon State College in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, where he met his wife, Lisa (Buckler), while "on the boards" of the Lyndon State College Alexander Twilight Theater where they performed in many shows together and fell in love with each other and their beloved theater family.

While attending Lyndon State College, Donnie earned a double major in Recreational Management and Theater Arts. He went on to earn the title of General Manager at several hotels throughout New England including South Burlington, VT and Hanover, NH.

Donnie was predeceased by his father, Donald H. Bruce and his mother, Janice (Butler). He leaves behind unconditional love for his wife Lisa, his four beloved daughters Jessica, Rachel and his twins Hilary and Haley, his sisters Lisa Bruce and Sherry Dibernardo, his many loved nieces and nephews, his adored grandchildren Vera, Mimmy, and Calvin, and his constant companion and "Buddy", his dog, Fergus.

There will be a celebration of a life well-lived for Donnie in the fall, which was his favorite season. The destination and date have yet to be decided but will be announced.

Please consider donating to the Norris Cotton Cancer Center at Dartmouth Hitchcock where Donnie received his treatment and care.

Go Fishing, Sweetheart!