Bruce Alan Frye, 66, of Bloomington passed away on Sunday June 11, 2017. He was born on May 25, 1951 in Bloomington, Indiana to Harvey and Mary Jane (Blanke) Frye.
After graduating from University High School in 1969, Bruce went to work for Pritchard’s Service Station at 10th Street and Indiana Ave. in Bloomington, where he was employed for almost 20 years as a mechanic. After earning a degree in computer aided drafting and becoming a certified welder, he went to work for Cook Inc. as a welder and fabricator. Bruce would eventually become the machine shop supervisor at the Ellettsville West Plant. In 2004 he became a machinist for the Indiana University Chemistry Department machine shop, working with students and faculty to create custom research equipment.
Bruce will always be remembered as a man who took great pride in his work and the things he created, whether it be a custom scientific research instrument or an equipment repair for a neighboring farmer. His lifelong love of building and creating was evident early on when he saved money from his newspaper route and at the age of 14, bought his first stick welder. Bruce touched many lives through his skilled work over the years, always willing to lend a hand or an honest opinion when needed most. He greatly enjoyed restoring tractors and antique railway maintenance cars.
Bruce is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 37 years; one son John and daughter-in-law Hillary of Unionville; brother Mark and sister-in-law Sheila of Bloomington, brother Perry and sister-in-law Kathy of Logansport, brother Kent and sister-in-law Judy of Holland, Michigan; eight nieces and nephews, one great niece and three great nephews. Bruce is also survived by his beloved grandson Samuel, who for the past 19 months was a source of great joy and pride.
Visitation for Bruce will be held Saturday, June 17, 2017 from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM at The Funeral Chapel of Powell and Deckard, 3000 E. Third Street, Bloomington, Indiana 47401.
Bruce's funeral will be at 1:00 PM on Saturday at The Funeral Chapel with burial to follow at Unionville Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made in Bruce’s memory to the Indiana Railway Museum in French Lick or to the Unionville Church of Christ.