Bruce Bartlett

In the verdant landscapes of Quincy, Massachusetts, on the 6th of April in the year 1948, a new life came into existence. This life would soon embark on an extraordinary journey through the realms of the natural world. Meet Bruce, a young explorer of the Earth's wonders. In 1970, his quest for knowledge led him to the hallowed halls of the University of Rhode Island, where he honed his understanding of the intricacies of zoology. Eager for further enlightenment, he set his sights on the distant western horizon. Venturing to the sun-kissed shores of California, Bruce pursued higher learning at the University of the Pacific in Stockton. Here, he delved deep into the mysteries of the marine realm, earning his master's degree in marine science. But the allure of the ocean depths was not yet sated. To attain the pinnacle of his scholarly pursuits, Bruce embarked on an academic odyssey to Oregon State University, where he immersed himself in the profound mysteries of marine biology, earning his PhD. It was during this time, in the year 1976, amidst the azure waters of Washington’s Friday Harbor, that fate would introduce him to a kindred spirit, Margaret. Their love would blossom, culminating in a joyous union in 1979. Together, Bruce and Margaret forged a life in the tranquil landscapes of Corvallis, Oregon. Here, they nurtured their two offspring, a son named Byron and a daughter named Sydney. Their love story, a tapestry woven with threads of devotion, would span four glorious decades. On his seven-acre farm, Bruce cultivated not only crops but also a deep bond with the land. A small fruit orchard, a verdant greenhouse, and a flourishing garden bore testament to his commitment to the natural world. Yet, even amidst the bounty of his farm, life had its share of sorrow. Tragedy struck on the fateful day of September 19, 2019, as the cruel hand of cancer claimed Margaret. Bruce, a stalwart in the world of science, would now navigate the turbulent waters of loss. For two decades, Bruce dedicated his intellect and passion to the USDA National Clonal Germplasm Repository, nurturing and distributing plants. But life is not measured solely in work. In his moments of respite, he found solace in the embrace of his beloved garden, sought serenity in the sunny shores of Mexico, honed his skills on the golf course, and indulged in the art of winemaking alongside kindred spirits in his wine group. Bruce, a seasoned voyager through the tapestry of life, found contentment in the simple pleasures. He cherished moments with his children, savored the artistry of cinema, and delighted in the harmonious pairing of a well-brewed latte with a succulent blueberry muffin. Such is the unfolding narrative of Bruce's life, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring beauty of our natural world. Bruce R Bartlett passed away on January 8th 2024 at the age of 75, with his children by his side. Bruce is survived by: Byron and Sydney.

Tributes

Bruce Bartlett

April 6, 1948 - February 8, 2024