WORCESTER - Joseph Bruce Ference, of Worcester, New York died suddenly on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at the age of 60.

Born in Freeport, New York, Bruce was the son of Mabel (Betty) and the late Joseph Ference of Worcester, the brother of Reed Ference (Jody) of Slingerlands, NY and the late Barry Ference.

Most of Bruce's childhood was spent in Gilbertsville and Worcester, and he graduated from the Worcester Central School in 1966. After graduating from the State University of NY at Cobleskill in 1968, Bruce began a long career of serving his country and was a veteran of the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After returning home, Bruce studied at the State University of NY at Oneonta, where he received his bachelor's degree. After graduation, Bruce returned again to the service of his country. For twenty-three years, he proudly donned his United States Navy uniform as a member of the Naval Submarine Force. He traveled the world and made his home at various Navy bases in Washington, Georgia, Connecticut, and New York. In 1995 he retired from the Navy as a Chief Petty Officer, following a total of 26 years of service to his country.

Bruce's dedication to his country was exceeded only by his love and dedication to his family and friends. His devotion to his mother and brother Reed showed itself in the daily routine of Bruce's life. Since he retired from the military, Bruce thrived on the joy he felt taking care of the home that he shared with his mother, working part-time at his brother's dental practice in Albany, NY, and being the uncle extraordinaire to his 3 nephews, Sean, Ryan and Daniel. With joy, laughter, silliness, and immeasurable love, Bruce and his beloved nephews enjoyed watching movies together, boating, wrestling, eating his fabulous barbecued burgers, and just being together. He loved to cook and share great meals with all who were dear to him. He gave of himself to friends and neighbors in need with a big heart and no questions asked. Bruce was an active member of the Worcester American Legion, where he served as Commander for six years. With quiet grace and simplicity, Bruce lived his life placing importance on what truly mattered; he loved, he laughed, he honored, and he gave. Bruce showed everyone who knew him that it is possible to embrace each day as if it were a new beginning.

Calling hours will be on Thursday, January 24, 2008 at E.J. Skinner Funeral Chapel, Main St., Worcester, NY from 6 pm to 8 pm. Family and friends are also invited to call prior to funeral services which will be held on Friday, January 25, 2008 at the Skinners' at 11 am, with the Rev. Paul Messner, officiating.

A military burial service will follow at the Butternut Cemetery, Gilbertsville, NY.

In lieu of flowers, anyone who wishes to remember Bruce in a special way is asked to donate to Worcester American Legion #1584, PO Box 363, Worcester, NY 12197 or the American Heart Association, Heart Gifts Processing Center, PO Box 3049, Syracuse, NY 13220-3049.

Condolences may be made at www.skinnerfuneralchapel.com

The E.J. Skinner Co., 155 Main St., Worcester, is serving the family.