Barry Bruch, 85, passed away of natural causes April 4, 2023 at St. Francis ICU Cardiac Ward. Born in Yonkers, NY to Gertrude & Charles Bruch. He is survived by his wife, Joyce, daughter, Courtney, sister, Linda Mann, sister-in-law, Betty Wilson as well as an extended family.

Barry was a highly decorated Captain, special forces, green beret, retiring from the army honorably after 22 years of service. A few of his decorations include: Master Parachutist, Combat Medical Badge, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 bronze service stars and Meritorious Service Medal.

He met his wife of 51 years, Joyce while stationed at Ft. Benning. After his army retirement, he worked at Prudential Financial. He loved his work, was an avid bass fisherman, motorcyclist, & excelled as a racquetball player. You can see his 10 lb large mouth bass mounted on the wall at Lake Oliver.

Barry was a devoted husband & father. He was personable, playful, had a fabulous sense of humor and a positive outlook for life. He LOVED spicy food, grew several varieties of hot peppers & created his own small batch hot sauce line last year.

He made yearly trips to Maui for over a decade to visit his daughter, Courtney. On Maui you could find him enjoying drum circles on the beach, singing, learning chi gung, snorkeling with turtles, learning ukulele in aunty Penny’s class for veterans, receiving acupuncture and living life to the fullest! He is well loved by his Maui ohana. Barry had an infectious energy about him. He loved people, animals and adventure! He was adaptable and eager to try new things.

Most recently Barry had taken up fly fishing with Project Healing Waters, https://projecthealingwaters.org. He also finally felt proficient about his drumming skills, playing daily & was looking forward to his next drum circle. Even with his long term advanced, glaucoma & diminishing vision, he maintained a positive outlook on life, embracing each new day.

Barry enjoyed the mountains of western NC these past few years, making a whole set of new friends that adore him. Barry had a heart of gold. He is missed dearly and well loved by many. We will endeavor to keep his fire burning brightly every day, serving others in our highest capacity while enjoying life and keeping it spicy.

Welcome home our beloved Barry. Rest in LOVE.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Columbus Hospice, https://www.columbushospice.com.

Celebration of Life Memoriam in Honor of Barry Bruch

Friday, April 14th at 2pm

The Loft, 1032 Broadway

Columbus, GA 319041

• The service will be held upstairs in the ‘Green Room’
• There is a service elevator for those needing assistance to the upstairs level located in the restaurant, for all other guests please, please use the painted piano stairs at the entrance.
• There will be a Military Honors ceremony included. This portion may be held in the outdoor courtyard. We are still finalizing the details.
• Please check back for updates or email CourtneyBruch808@gmail.com