Obituary of Bruce C MacRae

Bruce Charles "Mac" MacRae of Ware, passed away April 15, 2020. Bruce was predeceased by his parents, Sidney and Shirley (Bradley) MacRae, and his wife, Marlene (Barnes) MacRae. Bruce leaves behind his sons, Timothy and Daniel, both of Ware; Richard (Jodi), of Belchertown, and Adam, of Chicopee. He also leaves his brother, Earl, (Patricia) of Blackstone, and his sister, Christine MacRae Lee (Arthur), of Medway, as well as six grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Bruce was born in Palmer, and spent his early life in Monson prior to moving to Medway, where he was a 1968 graduate of Medway High School. Bruce later earned a certificate in horticulture from Norfolk Agricultural School. Upon his marriage, Bruce  returned to the Monson area, where he and Marlene raised their four sons first in Monson , and then Palmer. Bruce was a 20 year military veteran, having served initially in the National Guard, followed by 14 years in the Air Force, where he earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. Bruce worked for several years as a machinist, and truck driver, in the Springfield area. Bruce loved to play his trumpet, often playing Taps at various parades and military services. He was an eagle scout. Bruce was an avid fisherman, and especially enjoyed fishing in the ocean, and the Quabbin Reservoir, with family and friends. A celebration of Bruce’s life with full military honors will be held later at the convenience of the family. Donations in memory of Bruce can be made to the American Diabetes Association.