Robert Otho Bruce

Robert Otho Bruce passed away Monday, September 14, 2026, at his home in Bristol, Tennessee. Born December 15, 1945, in Dothan, Alabama to Otho and Mary (McCarty) Bruce, Bob grew up in Tallahassee and Jacksonville, Florida. He graduated from Florida State High School and Florida State University, earning both a bachelor's and master's degree in accounting and applied mathematics. Bob married Jan Wooters on September 3, 1977, in Bal Harbor, Florida. They celebrated their 49th anniversary two weeks before his death.

After serving in the Air Force from 1966 to 1970 (stationed in Minot, North Dakota; and Udorn AirForce Base in Thailand), Bob held various roles in the world of accounting and finance. He spent most of his career working for Westinghouse Electric Corporation in Pittsburgh, PA; Buffalo, NY; and Abingdon, VA. He retired as general manager when the Abingdon plant closed in 1996. He was the last man on scene, literally turning out the lights.

Bob was a dedicated member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. He served as Flotilla Commander, Division Commander, and Assistant National Commodore. He was the first Auxiliarist to hold the position of Chief Financial Officer. His name will be inscribed on the CG memorial for Commodores at Cape May, NJ.

Bob is remembered with love by his brother Bill, sisters-in-law Judy Bruce and Ruth Klein, and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. "Uncle Bob" played an important role in all their lives. Bob's life was enriched by his beloved dogs, Ike, Bonnie, Dulcie, and Bailey. He loved living in the mountains, boating and fishing on South Holston lake, and traveling with Jan.

He will also be remembered for his world-class Caesar salad, his love of really bad science fiction movies, his fear of driving over bridges, and his impressive woodworking skills. And “he always drank some mighty fine wine."