BINGHAMTON – Bruce Martin Townsend, 72, of Binghamton, passed away on Saturday, May 22, 2010 at the New York State Veterans’ Home in Oxford.
Bruce was born on Aug. 3, 1937, the son of Bruce N. Townsend and Catherine (Kathleen) Cleary.
He married (and later divorced) Alma Jean Miller (Ditch), and had two sons, Gary B. Townsend and Michael S. Townsend.
He graduated from Binghamton North High School, and then served his country by entering the U.S. Air Force from 1957 to 1959. Bruce then enjoyed a career at the United States Postal Service (Binghamton) in the Personnel Department until his retirement in 1992.
Bruce enjoyed bowling, softball and writing. A published author, with one novel and many poems, including “Choices,” the poem for which he won the International Society of Poets’ 2002 Award for Outstanding Achievement in Poetry. Bruce was a dedicated father and was known for his humor and wit by everyone. He was the inspiration for his brother Norman’s cartoon strip entitled “The Cleary Pub.”
Bruce is survived by his family: son, Gary B. Townsend and his wife Loriann (Parker) Townsend, and grandchildren Jill Marie Tozer and Douglas Townsend, son, Michael S. Townsend and his wife Kyna Lynn (Ryan) Townsend, and grandchildren Bruce Townsend and Ryan Townsend. His sisters, Frances Duffek, Lillian and husband Lawrence Kotasek and Linda Lou Clark-Merritt; brother Norman Townsend and wife Joanne Loller. Bruce will also be remembered by his many nephews and nieces.
A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held on Thursday evening from 5 to 7 p.m., at the Behe Funeral Home, 21 Main St., Oxford. Funeral services with full military honors will be held on Friday at 1 p.m. at the NYS Veterans’ Home Cemetery, Oxford.
Bruce’s family would like to extend their eternal gratitude to the NYS Veterans’ Home Staff in Oxford. He was given the best possible assistance and comfort while in their care.
Memorial contributions (in lieu of flowers) may be made to the NYS Veterans’ Home, 4207 State Highway 220, Oxford, NY 13830 are encouraged to help them continue to provide such excellent care.