CAPE CORAL, Fla. — Bruce Wayne O’Leary, 71, a resident of Cape Coral, Fla., formerly of Bristol, Vt., passed away on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023.
He was born Dec. 28, 1951, in St. Johnsbury, Vt., to Warren Coolbeth and Evelyn (Robinson) O’Leary. Warren passed away when Bruce was very young. Evelyn later married John O’Leary and they had three more children, all girls. The O’Leary family traveled all over the world following John’s military career in the Air Force, returning to Danville, Vt., in 1972.
Bruce was a skilled craftsman. He worked at Bread Loaf Corporation in Middlebury, Vt., for nearly 30 years managing field operations and safety. His work there supported the company’s growth from building condominiums and franchises to bigger manufacturers like Burton Snowboards, Otter Creek Brewery and Vermont Teddy Bear Factory.
Bruce passes on a legacy of meticulous craftsmanship. He taught his son, Tyler, the fundamentals of carpentry. He loved Tyler and was very proud of him.
In his retirement, Bruce enjoyed spending time with his two dogs. He appreciated life’s simple joys like taking care of his property and socializing with friends and neighbors.
Bruce was of the Catholic faith. He was a kind and gentle person. Anyone that knew Bruce knew about his hat collection. He collected hundreds of baseball caps over the years from places he traveled. He was a Red Sox fan.
Bruce is survived by his son, Tyler O’Leary, of Panton, Vt.; his three younger sisters, Cheryll Bunnell and husband Calvin of Greensboro, Vt., Kathy Sevigny and husband Rick of Danville, Vt., and Shonna Heath and husband Roland of North Danville, Vt.; and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Friends are invited to send condolences via the online guest book at www.MullinsMemorial.com.◊