Bruce D. Pickard

Bruce Dale Pickard, lovingly known as Bruce to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2024, in Beverly, Massachusetts. Born on January 26, 1947, to the late Fred Pickard and Hazel (Morrison), Bruce's life was a testament to the enduring spirit of love, laughter, and generosity that touched all who knew him.

Bruce's journey began in Topsfield, where he spent his childhood and later graduated from Proctor School. He honed his skills in masonry at Beverly Trade School, a craft that would serve him well throughout his life. His dedication to his country was evident when he was drafted into the US Navy, serving as a gunner's mate aboard the USS Roosevelt during the Vietnam War. After being honorably discharged in 1970, Bruce returned home to embark on a career and build a family.

His professional life was as varied as it was fulfilling. Bruce managed the Cumberland Farms in downtown Topsfield, a role he balanced with the responsibilities of raising his two beloved daughters. The family later moved to North Andover, where Bruce took on a machinist position at Davis & Furber Foundry. His caring nature shone through his act of becoming a foster parent to a coworker's daughter, further extending his already generous heart.

Upon retiring to Salem, New Hampshire, Bruce found joy in the companionship of a wonderful group of friends and neighbors. His retirement years were as active and engaging as any other period of his life, filled with the hobbies and passions that he loved.

A true renaissance man, Bruce's interests were many and varied. He was an excellent cook, known for his delectable meatballs and sauce, molasses taffy, and homemade bread. His baked Alaska and oatmeal cookies were legendary among family and friends. Bruce was also an avid gardener, a skilled woodworker, and a lover of music and the great outdoors. He instilled a sense of self-sufficiency and adventure in his daughters, sharing his love for camping along the Ipswich River, fishing, paddling, and even teaching them how to shoot a rifle. His daughters fondly remember tie-dyeing in the yard, playing tennis, engaging in backyard full-contact badminton games, and enjoying trips to Salisbury Beach, the Kancamagus, and a memorable two-week trip to Hawaii.

Bruce's legacy is carried on by his devoted family, including his daughters, Lisa Flynn, married to Joseph, and Rebecca Delsignore, married to Vincent. He was the cherished grandfather of nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren: Melissa (Flynn) Andruszkiewicz and her husband Steven, with their children Wesley and Ella; Joseph Flynn and his wife Yvette (Bradford), with their children Logan and Ava; William Flynn and Laura Flynn; Sophia (Delsignore) Call and her husband Jacob, with their children Gabriella and Juliette; Ariana (Delsignore) Vasquez and her husband Joshua; and Vincent, Josiah, and Benjamin Delsignore. He is also survived by his brother Bradley and Michael, and sisters Cheryl and Diane Roberts. Bruce was predeceased by his brothers Ted, Neil, Joseph, Jesse, and his parents.

Those who knew Bruce will remember him as a man of great humor, love, and generosity. His life was a reflection of the values he held dear: family, friendship, and the simple joys of life. Bruce's passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide those he loved.

Bruce's life will be celebrated and remembered in the hearts of his family and the many lives he touched. His laughter, his wisdom, and his unwavering kindness will never be forgotten. As we bid farewell to a remarkable man, we take solace in knowing that his legacy of love and laughter will live on through the generations.

Services will be private. Memorial donations can be made to : Chelsea Veteran's Home

To make a donation to the Chelsea Veteran's Home, please contact the Commandant's Office at (617) 887-7115.

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