Bruce Herbert Doane, beloved husband, father, and friend was born on January 6, 1929, in West Palm Beach, FL and raised in Sea Cliff, Long Island. He peacefully passed away on September 10, 2023, at the age of 94, surrounded by his family and loved ones near his home in Rochester, NY.
Bruce’s life was a testament to hard work, family values, and unwavering integrity. He left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him, with his kindness, quick wit, and love for a well-timed joke. Beyond his warm personality and generous spirit, he was an accomplished woodworker and found joy in antique cars, music, playing Bridge, and exploring the world through travel. He was a gentle soul who always held a special place in his heart for his children and his beloved animals.
Having served in the US Army from 1946 to 1948, during the Occupation of Japan, he also trained as a medic in preparation for the Korean conflict in 1951. He was immensely proud of his service and especially proud of his Airborne training.
Bruce graduated from Alfred University, where he met his future wife, Dorothy Shaw. In June of 1954, Bruce and Dorothy were married in Garden City, Long Island. Shortly thereafter, Bruce accepted a position with IBM, leading the family to settle in the Vestal, NY area where they raised four daughters. In 2012, Bruce and Dorothy made Rochester, NY their new home.
Bruce leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by his wife of 69 years, Dorothy, and his four daughters, Nancy Doane (Ed), Sue Kurtz (Tim), Kathy Weiss (Gary), and Cindy Doane (Keith). He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Mica, David, Emma, Kate, Jack, Kayla, Zach, and Christopher, as well as five great-grandchildren.
As we honor Bruce’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral or memorial service. Instead, he asked his loved ones to take a ride in an antique car and know that his spirit will be riding along beside you. Though no formal gathering is planned, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at the UR Medicine Palliative Care Unit, the Hospice staff, and his team of dedicated in-home caregivers.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Bruce’s memory to Canine Companions (canine.org) or to the UR Medicine Palliative Care Unit (https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/medicine/palliative-care/giving.aspx).
I’ll always remember his constant smile and kind ways. My heart breaks for you all. I need to find an antique car. In the meantime, I’ll keep him and all of you in my heart.
He was such a kind, thoughtful and gentle soul. I feel privileged to have known him. I will always honor his patience and caring. My thoughts are with you all, hoping you find peace and healing.
A more gentle, loving, kind, and giving human you will never find. Your parents role-modeled parenting skills for me. On faculty trips, your Dad always kept spirits up with his humor and warm smile. Now I understand why your parents have been popping up in my thoughts lately! I hope you girls are comforted by wonderful memories that will endure though out your lives.🙏🙏🙏
A wonderful friend and neighbor. He will be missed
As a neighbor at Rivers Run, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Treasure all the memories of the long and eventful life shared by your large family. My sympathies..
A cherished neighbor who will be missed. My little dog, Bebe, always loved his pats on the head and sweet words.
Your Dad embodied what it means to live a good life! I know you will all miss him tremendously, and I am sorry for your loss. Your entire family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Remembering a kind and friendly neighbor who will be missed by our Rivers Run community. My sincere condolences to your whole lovely family.