Obituaries
Barry K. Bruce, 62
Barry K. Bruce, 62, of Lancaster, PA died peacefully on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at Hospice of Lancaster County following a one-year illness. He was born in Lancaster to the late Kenneth N. Bruce and Mary T. (Kahn) Bruce Conoscenti.
Barry is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Linda (Hollingshead) Bruce.
Barry was an alumnus of St. Anne School, a 1967 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School, and a 1971 graduate of The Pennsylvania State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech/Broadcasting.
He was a member of St. John Neumann Roman Catholic Church.
Barry was founder and CEO of Barry Bruce & Company, Inc. The company, formerly known as Barry Bruce & the Advanswers, Inc., was founded in 1988. From 1987-1988 he was local sales manager at WPMT-TV FOX 43. He served as general manager of WQXA-FM (Q106) and WNOW-AM from 1977-1987. Barry was a producer and director at WGAL-TV from 1972-1977. He directed NBC’s live 1976 Bicentennial coverage to the world from Lancaster and WGAL-TV. While a student at Penn State, he was awarded internships at KDKA-TV and Radio, Pittsburgh, and WGAL-TV 8 in Lancaster.
Barry chaired Lancaster Catholic High School’s annual six-night carnival and was a member of the school’s Strategic Planning and Needs Assessment task force. He was a 2007 recipient of the school’s Alumni Citation Award.
In 2001 Barry was chairman of Lancaster Sertoma Club’s World’s Largest Chicken BBQ, benefitting Long’s Park. He was responsible for media promotion and coverage for the event, helping the club raise a record-setting net profit.
Barry was chairman of the board of the Lancaster Children’s Museum Hands-On House from its inception through April 1989. He served on the boards of the Spina Bifida Association, Council on Drug & Alcohol Abuse, Schreiber Pediatric Center, Goodwill Industries, and the Lancaster Advertising Club. He was treasurer of the ABC Radio Network Advisory board from 1985-1987.
He was a member of Lancaster Country Club.
Surviving in addition to his wife, Linda, are four children: two daughters, Heather M. Bruce, of Lancaster, Kelly M. Lynch, wife of Paul, of Lancaster; two sons, Jonathan M. Bruce, of Morehead, KY, Christopher R. Bruce, of Lancaster; four grandchildren, Drew Schwanke, Grace, Olivia, and Liam Lynch.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 11am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 601 E. Delp Rd., Lancaster, PA 17601 with the Rev. Msgr. Thomas Smith, Rev. Msgr. Richard Youtz, the Rev. David Danneker, and the Rev. Peter Hahn as Celebrants. There will be no visitation prior to Mass on Tuesday. A viewing will be held on Monday evening from 5-9 pm at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Barry’s memory to Lancaster Catholic High School, 650 Juliette Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601 or St. Joseph Catholic Church, 440 St. Joseph St., Lancaster, PA 17603. To send the family an online condolence, please visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory 717-560-5100
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Condolences to the Family
May 14, 2018
Very sorry to just find out this wonderful man passed away after so many wonderful memories of my childhood listening to Q106. Fondest memories were of him joking with morning personalities The Captain and Jim Cook (- wish I knew how these two gentlemen are.) Thank you for the memories and God bless.
Jeffrey Helt
Dear Linda and Family
Growing up the son of Ralph and Mildred Bruce, with brother, Roger, we always looked forward to the Holiday Season because "the Bruce’s were going to get together."
I moved to attend college in California and am still here. I have been in music business the whole time and was happy to hear from Barry that he loved music and was studying broadcasting at Penn State. He sent me his recording (The Shaynes)
Reading today all of his professional accomplishments as well as serving and supporting mankind in the community was incredible.
I’m sorry I never got to meet his whole family.
My deepest condolences to Barry’s family.
Love,
Denny Bruce
Linda & Family,
So sad to hear of Barry’s passing. I have know him since his days as lead singer for The Shaynes, in the mid 60s. Since then, his contributions to the community have been immeasurable. He had a heart as big as the sky. In 1995, when Mike Leash produced the 1st Class Of ’60 Somethin’ album, financial backing was needed to launch the project. Barry, along with Tom Ranker and Dale E. Anstine, graciously provided their support and stepped in as executive producers for our first 3 CDs. Barry’s contribution to our project will never be forgotten, as he helped bring our vision to fruition. Our next live performance, on Oct. 29th, will most definitely be dedicated to our friend, Barry Bruce. May God’s love be with you all, during this most difficult time.
Deepest Condolences,
Thom "Daddy C" Colson and the entire Class Of ’60 Somethin’
I had the pleasure of knowing Barry for 10 years. He was always the professional, treating me with respect and kindness. I loved listening to him talk about his grandchilden and the fun times they had together.
I am shocked and saddened about his passing way to young. He had so much more to offer. I offer my condolences to his family at this difficult time.
Sue Grzegorek
Chandler, AZ
Kel and family:
So sorry for your loss, but thankful that you had special time with your father. You all are in our prayers and thoughts.
Joe and Colleen Bitts
I am so very sorry to hear of Barry’s passing away. I knew Barry when I was in the Sertoma Club. He was very nice and always pleasant to talk to at the meetings, cookout, etc. I will keep the entire family in my prayers and thoughts during these difficult times. Tom F. Hermansader
I was very sad to hear of Barry’s passing. I was blessed to have my path cross several times over the years with Barry through different charitable work in the community. Barry was so committed, professional and real. I hope you find comfort in knowing he was well regarded and most importantly well loved.
My sincerest condolences –
Margie Lamberson
I think I’ve said so many things over the past few weeks…
Now, I’m just speechless.
Prayers to you Linda, the boys and all family members and Dawn Hall.
I will be at the services in spirit.
Kevin Martorana
I only found out today of Barry’s death since I live in North Carolina. I last saw him at my mother’s funeral about four year’s ago. Although I have lived in the south for years I kept in contact with Barry through email. I met him at St Anne’s where we played basketball. He was a year behind me but while at Catholic High we both made records with our bands, we then graduated from Penn State, and we both owned our own ad agencies. He was truly the brother I never had. We lost a wonderful man and I will never forget how supportive he was when my Mom passed. Barry we will miss you.
Burton "Bud" Hill
Dear Linda and children, you are in my thoughts and prayers! Barry was a good friend and will be missed greatly by everyone he knew. Be strong and know God will keep him in is care!!!
Love,
Chris Kane
I am deeply saddened to learn of Barry’s passing. I enjoyed working with him when I lived in Lititz and worked at Linden Hall. Dawn and Barry produced some wonderful material for the school. I enjoyed his friendship and know his family, his co-workers and the Lancaster community will miss him dearly. I am so happy I knew him. My condolences to all of his loved ones and friends.
June Stine
Dearest Linda and Family,
When Barry entered a room it got brighter… when Barry sang a song, people listened… when Barry showed his admiration it was so heartfelt… I was privileged to know the man. I am so grateful to have shared my music with him as he appreciated it so much. Our little private show with him last week was a blessing and will be remembered for the rest of my life. Barry playing air guitar with us while remaining the consummate host! What a guy. Those moments are the silver lining. Thank you for a beautiful memory. Dave and I play those same songs and we now look at each other and know who they are for…Barry.
With Love,
Heather Sneeringer
Copper Sky
Linda–
You may not remember me but Barry was my terrific, fun, always laughing boss when I was the copywriter at Q106. I just ran into him about a year ago at the Q106 Reunion — no idea anything was wrong. Just heard about his untimely death by a friend in Lancaster–so sorry. He was such a great guy and so great a boss– he did not feel like a boss– just a good friend who loved you very much and loved the radio business. He will be missed. God Bless you and your family.
Kris Schwenzer (The Schwenz) Parsons
Dear family members,
Please accept my deepest condolences over your loss of Barry. I worked with Barry many years ago and again just recently when we began the signage program for Catholic High. I valued my time working with such a passionate and dedicated individual as Barry truly was. He was the consummate professional yet genuine and down to earth, approachable and likeable to all. I thought he had this licked, and was very saddened to read of his passing. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult and trying time.
Lisa Miller
I worked with Barry back when I was selling printing.
Even when deadlines were tight, he was always a gentleman,
and a gentle man. He will be missed.
May the Lord bless you and keep you, and give you peace.
Dave Edgar
Dear Heather,
I didn’t personally know your father but his name is mentioned in this office here at WGAL on a daily basis. Obviously his work here is legendary.
My heart goes out to you, Drew and the rest of your family. God bless you all.
Lori Secord,
WGAL
Dear Linda ,
I will always remember Barry as the wonderful husband that loved his wife so much that he was sure she wore a smaller size. I hope all the love you shared will give you strength at this most difficult time. I am sending all my love to you and your family. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
My deepest sympathy,
Sonia Holbrook , of Sonia rose.
I am sorry I could not be there, but you have my deepest condolences. I know I will miss seeing him, although it was only once a month in the shop but I know you will miss him a lot more
Ben DeVerter
We extend our deepest sympathy to Linda and her family at this difficult time. Barry’s life was legendary and the impact he had on our community will be felt for a long time to come. We pray that you will have the peace that passes all understanding and come to know that he is preparing a way for you in Heaven.
Martha, Randy and Kathryn Harris
On behalf of our Law Firm, Pyfer Partners, I would like to send our deepest sympathy with regards to Barry’s passing. Barry was a wonderful man and a true leader. We will miss you dearly.
Sincerely,
Tina L. Kauffman, Office Manager, Pyfer Partners.
My prayers go out to everyone in the family…wife and children. Grieving for Barry will be a natural thing because he was loved by so many. We know that Barry is in a better place and we thank God for giving Barry to us. What he did for his family and friends will also be remembered.
The grief of his loss will be different to each one of us. This is normal. Let all the love surrounding you bring you comfort as you get thru these most difficult days. Allow for time to heal. Grief is a process that just doesn’t transform overnight. It takes time. No rush needed. May each of the family members find their way to cope with Barry’s loss.
May you feel God’s comfort for the rest of your life.
A Friend – Glenn Brooks
Jerry read Barry’s obituary in the newspaper, yesterday morning and told me about his passing. Saying I’m sorry just doesn’t seem to be enough. Linda, I feel so badly for all of you! Barry was a wonderful man. Jerry has always been thankful for the times Barry either took him to or picked him up from The Seeing Eye. Barry loved Jerry’s dogs. I just wish we had gotten together more often to spend time with you all.
I didn’t know that Barry was sick, but I suspected something might be wrong. He wasn’t chair of theLCHS festival and I wondered about that.
Linda, I’ll be in touch in awhile, and maybe we can go to lunch. Our prayers are with you and your family in this extremely difficult time.
Cindy and Jerry Handel and Narnia
Dear Family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Barry was a wonderful friend personally and professionally. He made an enormous contribution to the community and lived a life of purpose and meaning. He will be missed by many. Wishing you the Peace of God at this difficult time.
Love to you,
Kim Lemon
To Barry’s family: I am so sorry to hear about Barry’s passing. I am his cousin who lives in Baltimore. I had no idea that he was sick. I’m sure he is in a better place now and his suffering is over. The thing I remember most about Barry was when he was in the Shaynes and had that great record called "You tell me girl". I was at college in Lock Haven while Barry was at Penn State. I had my fraternity book his band up at my school for a dance. What a great night! When I moved down here after graduation I kind of lost touch with him, but his Dad always kept me updated on him. His Dad was so proud of him and all the grandchildren. My deepest condolences go to all of you. Best wishes.
Cousin Kerry Bruce and wife Maryann
Heather:
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. We knew about this on Wednesday night. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. He is now at peace and resting comfortably in the arms of our Lord. He will now be able to watch Drew from above.
Carol and Mel Jacoby
We are truly sorry to hear of Barry’s death. He was such an enthusiastic, vital person, someone we will all miss. He was such a good friend of A Woman’s Concern. I last saw him mid-July when he was still optimistic. Our condolences to Linda, Barry’s children grandchildren and family.
Jack & Lena Hohenadel
Linda & family,
Please except my deepest sympathies at Barry’s passing. I will always fondly remember him and the times he and I shared working together professionally through his agency and on the LCHS Carnival committee. When I first got involved as entertainment committee person for the carnival he’d always come over to the sound stage several times to ensure I’d have "Free Falling" by Tom Petty queued up and ready to play when Steve Lapp would skydive. Barry never missed the details….
I know I’ll miss his warm personality and enthusiasm for anything he undertook. You and the family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Regards,
Bot Roda
Linda & Family.
My heart sank when I learned of Barry’s death. I had no idea he was ill, although we spoke every few months. Barry was my mentor in broadcasting, and his lessons and advice will forever stick with me. One of the best memories I have of Barry was when I had the honor to serve as his co-chairman for the 2001 Sertoma Club "World’s Largest Chicken BBQ", in which he set a record for money raised to support the community. Barry truly had one of the biggest hearts of anyone I have known. Allyson’s and my thoughts and prayers go out to you.
DJ & Allyson Thatcher
Always a smile and always willing to help. The community will miss him. God bless you Barry.
Joe Calhoun
To all of Barry’s Family,
I have known Barry since I grew up on Pleasure Rd., and Barry and my brother, Ed Ward, were friends at St. Anne’s. He was like a second big brother to me. He always treated me with sincere care and sisterly love each and every time we saw each other through the years. I only found out about his illness at the end of his journey in Hospice. I am now a teacher at St. Anne School where Barry, Ed, and I all went to school together. We have, and continue to pray for all of you here at St. Anne’s. May God bless you and comfort you at this difficult time. We celebrate Barry’s life, but will greatly miss his presence among us.
God Bless.
Cathy Ward Showalter
Linda, Chris and family:
Our daughter, Hollace, reported to us, that mention of Barry’s death was announced at Lancaster Catholic High School. Although we were shocked, since the last we had heard was that Barry was doing well following his medical concerns this past summer, we were more concern about the void to you and your family. Although, we only had only known Barry for a short time, we could see his presence in your son, Chris. Chris is a wonderful young man, I know Barry was extremely proud of him. Dedicated, keeping everyone happy, logical and helpful were attributes I know Barry possessed and he has passed so beautifully to Chris. We extend our sympathy to you and your family. We did inform Leland and he was extremely shocked by the news. Likewise, he would like to extend his sympathy as well.
With our deepest felt sympathy.
Gary, April, Leland and Hollace Kutay
Barry and I were roommates at Penn State in 1971. His energy and optimism were boundless. One example: He wrote a term paper on the German TV network, ZDF. The materials he got from ZDF were mostly in German. Barry didn’t speak a word of German, but that didn’t stop him. I translated some of it and he went on with his paper. His "can-do" attitude was doubtless the key quality that led to his tremendous accomplishments as a professional and civic leader.
Another side of Barry was his propensity for creating pure fun. His recent illness led me to share with Barry some photos and memories of our happy days at Penn State, Pittsburgh and Lancaster. I will fondly remember Barry as long as I live. I offer my heartfelt condolences to Barry’s family.
Sincerely,
Frank Deak
I consider myself privileged and blessed for the friendship I had with Barry made possible through our mutual membership in the Sertoma Club of Lancaster. It is obvious Barry’s legacy reaches out to countless people in the community. He never forgot where he came from. Barry always took time to recognize and help others. Barry was, in a word, a sage. Truly genuine. And as "the real deal" as they come. He will be sorely missed. My family’s hearfelt condolences go out to all of Barry’s family and colleagues. God bless you Barry. Rest brother…
Charlie Feyock & family
Linda, I can’t tell you how saddened I am to hear the tragic news. I am so glad that you and Barry had such a wonderful marriage together, plus produced two wonderful sons to keep you comforted. I would love to catch up with you once this challenging time has passed. I still tell people about the tribute the d-jays on Q106 concocted for my birthday tribute way back in the day – singing "My Sciroco". Take care and God bless you and yours.
Lovingly, Joan (Berger)Schmidt
412-859-0311 or joanaschmidt@comcast.net
[Spoken:]
One month ago today
I was happy as a lark
But now I go for walks
To the movies – maybe to the park
And have a seat on the same old bench
To watch the children play (huh)
You know, tomorrow is their future
But to me, just another day
They all gather around me
They seem to know my name
We laugh, tell a few jokes
But it still doesn’t ease my pain
I know I can’t hide from a memory
‘Though day after day I’ve tried
I keep sayin’ she’ll be back
But today again I lied
I always promised Barry that this would be our final exchange together, however, it never happened because I never knew he was sick or suffering! That was so Barry!…BEST GM and creative guy I have ever worked with!….I have so many memories and stories during the "SUPERSTATION" …Q106 days!…
WOW!…God Bless the entire Bruce family and rest assured know he talked about and bragged about you all!
Love and peace to all!
Tom Shannon & family
Kelly and Paul,
My sincere condolences on the loss of your father. Please know that as your neighbor, I see his love everyday in the eyes of your girls (and will also in your son, as Liam comes to know the family’s love.) Barry represented all that is good in this world and you have been the recipient of that gift. It shows in each of you, and it shows in your children.
Take care, celebrate Barry’s heartfelt goodness, and love yourself and your family.
Kim Rentschler
Our deepest condolences to all of Barry’s family.
The Conoscenti family — Chuck (Ronnie), Diane, and Lauren
Oh Gee Oh Gee
A great guy…….
Dennis Bucher
I gasped when I saw Barry’s obituary in today’s newspaper. I worked for him at Q106, and I voiced several radio and television spots for his agency. We even judged the Miss South Central Pennsylvania pageant at Park City together in the late 1980s! He had a remarkable presence, and I always admired how he set the standard for diligence and attention to any project. I will always remember his kindness, his warm laugh, and his ability to truly connect to people. His contribution to local broadcasting should never be forgotten.
Wendy Caldwell
My heartfelt condolences to each of you. I attended LCHS with Barry. He has been an inspiration to many over the years with his endless energy and compassion. May God’s loving arms help you through the difficult days ahead without Barry.
Deepest Sympathy,
Sherran Gerz Payne
My thoughts and prayers go out to Barry’s wife Linda and his children. I had met Barry a few times and he was always smiling and seemed like such a nice guy. My husband Jon is his cousin, and he was close to Barry’s father Ken. Uncle Ken always had such wonderful things to say about Barry and his family and you could tell how proud and how much he loved Barry and his children. May Barry rest in peace. God bless you and your family.
Kathy Bruce
Dear Linda and Family:
I am so sad to learn of Barry’s death. I was in class with Barry all through grade school at St. Anne’s and became reacquainted with Barry in the last couple of years at our St. Anne’s class reunion celebrations. May you know our Lord’s presence and comfort during this time of grief.
Blessings,
Barbara Ferguson
I am sorry to hear of your loss. Barry was my Cousin and even though we grew up in different worlds we are still Blood. There have been many times Uncle Ken and me talked about Barry and all of you and how much you all were loved by him before his passing. He adored Barry and never failed to mention that to me probably a thousand times in my life. I kinda knew he meant everything he was telling me. He loved all of his Grandchildren to and you also Linda. He adored you! I know now that Barry is in Heaven they now can reunite and talk about all of you and how much you are loved. My Mother and Father adored Barry talked and talked about him alot! Now they can see him once again as we all will when we pass on into Heaven. Again I want you to know I am here for you if you need me. God Bless you all and may Barry rest in Peace. Semper fi, Cousin
Jon