Bruce Edward Barch

 Bruce Edward Barch, 72, of Onondaga Hill, formerly of Westvale, passed away Sunday at Crouse Hospital. He fought through many tough health hurdles and always came back, stronger and more determined to live life to the fullest. Anyone else may have given up after becoming a double amputee and needing dialysis treatments, but he remained positive, loving, and determined until his body was too tired to go on. His family always said he was like a cat with nine lives and was on his third cat.

 Bruce was the son of Virginia and Edward Barch. From a very young age, he had a keen interest in cars and would go to Wilbur’s Auto Shop with his dad on Saturdays and pretend to drive the cars, leaving them flooded after stepping on the gas. His love for cars would only grow as he did and, for a short time, worked at various dealerships during the day and then his own hot rods in the evening. Bruce retired from New Venture Gear in 2001 after 30 years. Aside from cars he also had a love of music, in particular, rock ’n roll and the blues. He was a huge Rolling Stones fan, attended several of their concerts in the USA and Canada, and was a collector of their records, memorabilia, as well as pieces of Ronnie Wood’s artwork. He was a loving husband, Dad, PopPop, and softball coach for Geddes Little League from 1988-1994 and will be missed.

On February 9, 1974, he married the love of his life, Suzanne “Suzie” Kalczuga. They were blessed with three loving daughters and their love for each other and family continued to grow with each year.

Left behind to cherish his memory are his children, Julie (Ed) Dunn, Kimberly (David) Furness, and Ginny (Lenny) Paradise; grandchildren, Danny and Natalie Dunn, Lucas Furness, Madelynne, Kayleigh, and Lexi Paradise; and his beloved dogs, Bojangles and Eddie.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thank you and appreciation to the nursing staff and doctors at Crouse Hospital, CNY Dialysis Center, and St. Camillus Home Care PT.

Relatives and friends may call Thursday, September 1 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral service will be held Friday, September 2 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Bruce will be laid to rest in Howlett Hill Cemetery, Camillus.