Lost a great friend

Mark Chisholm

Mark Chisholm

Administrator
Administrator
Location
Home of the New Jersey Devils
It is very difficult to write this message. A great friend, Arborist and fantastic guy, Bruce Smith, has passed away today. Bruce will be missed by so many of us. His attendance at the ITCC was one of the reasons I always wanted to be there. A true and genuine "guys guy" that was always in a great mood and it was addicting. I have so many amazing memories with Bruce. I wish I could make some more. Even until his last moment he was a pillar of strength. Everyone loved Bruce and I know I'm not alone in my mourning his passing. Bruce was a hero of mine for so many reasons. RIP brother. ..I miss you already.
 
Bruce helped me in so many ways it's uncountable. He is the one who sold me his equipment for me to get started with my business. I recently sold that equipment in order to pursue consulting. That would have not have been possible without his guidance and generoucity. Additionally, the majority of how I present and share with others as an instructor has been influenced or molded from what Bruce shared with me. I owe a lot of who I am as an Arbroist and person to Bruce. I cried when I found out about his ALS and I was stopped cold today when I learns of his passing.
Bruce's memory will be lived on through us as we share his passion and attitude towards being excellent Arborists.
 
I can only echo the above comments. I only wish I could have known him longer. A great arborist, a great teacher, a great person who will truely be missed. Rest in peace now my friend, rest in peace. Prayers for your family.
 
I shall miss the ol' silverback. However, any sadness I experience is selfish. Bruce's life is a wonder to be celebrated, honored and appreciated for what it was, selfless and positive.

What Bruce gave to me as an arborist and as a fellow human will never be forgotten. I will strive to pass on what he gave in knowledge, skill, experience and friendship.

Carry on Tater, where ever the next step takes you and know that I will always rig in tater newtons, butt loads and shit tons :)

Tony
 
Thanks Mark. There are a ton of us out there like Bruce, all the best people in the world. I'm glad I knew him and a bunch more.
 
I was fortunate to have known Bruce and his family somewhat. My first real experience with them was when I helped out with the Florida Chapter TCC in 2002. The trip started with my stepping into a fire ant nest and ended with footlocking throwline in a lightning storm… good times, good times. (I still have my Zing-It bracelet).

Bruce and Lita were family from the moment we met and I feel the loss like many of you do. I was doubly fortunate because I was able to spend an afternoon with them just a few weeks ago. His mischievous smile and the sparkle in his eyes were still there.


Bruce’s passing is going to leave a pretty big hole in our industry, and in our hearts, but I know that I am a little better person because of the time I spent with Bruce. I also know that our profession is a much better place from all of the time, energy and passion that Bruce shared with us.

Sleep in peace Brother…
 
Bruce, me and the accursed Pitch Pine. The ripples of HIS acorn are still radiating. I marveled at his acceptance and all-embracing-respect of pretty much everyone. See you on the other side my friend.
 

Attachments

  • image.webp
    image.webp
    144.3 KB · Views: 39
I have a quote pinned up in my office . Today when I read it it sounded like something Bruce may have said.
"I don't feel it is important to be remembered personally but I would like the effects of my teaching to continue after my death. When a tree falls in the forest new saplings emerge to fill the space it once occupied. That tree then nourishes them. What is important is not to remember that tree, but to nurture the new growth"
Bruce you will be remembered and your teaching will always be in mine and many other peoples mental toolboxes.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

New threads New posts

Back
Top Bottom