Carl Barton Bruce

Remembering Carl

Carl Barton Bruce was born June 22, 1939 in Kansas City, Missouri to John and Marjorie

Green Bruce.  Carl's parents preceded him in death.

Carl attended Kansas City, Missouri Public Schools for six years.  Then, he moved to Holton, Kansas in sixth grade.  Although Carl attended Sumner High School from 1954 to 1955, he returned to Holton High the following year and graduated in 1957. A beautiful tenor voice and the gift of humor often put him in the spotlight on school programs. Carl found his niche in high school through music, sports and academics. His grandmother's influence instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of pride in his appearance as well as in any task he tackled.

Carl graduated from Pittsburgh State College with a degree in Psychology in 1962 and was also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. Afterwards, he joined the Army Reserves to serve his country.

His first job was as a sixth-grade teacher at Stowe Elementary School. After earning a Master's Degree from the University of Kansas in Guidance and Counseling, he worked as a counselor at grade schools. From 1967 to 1968, he was the vice principal of Northwest Junior High School and later became the principal from 1968 to 1987. Immediately following, Carl became principal at F. L. Schlagle High School from 1987 to 1990. His last job was as assistant Superintendent for Pupil and Parent Services from 1990 to 1995 for the USD 500 School District.

Music has been an integral part of Carl's life. He sang at school, social gatherings, weddings and actively participated in church choirs. The church choirs were a special part of his life. The choir participants were like a second family whom he loved and enjoyed.

Carl Bruce exhibited high moral character. He was a man of his word. He was punctual, dependable and reliable. Late was never a part of his DNA. He held himself to a higher standard and held others to that same standard. He always spoke words of encouragement and felt that the children are our greatest asset.

Carl was an avid golfer.  After retirement, he worked hard and became a skillful player. Words cannot capture or convey the depth, breadth and impact of Carl Barton Bruce upon others in this life.  He leaves to cherish his memories, a devoted wife, Ruby Bruce; son, Carl Bruce, II (Natasha); daughter, Cessalie Bruce; two granddaughters, Summer and Nia; brother, John Bruce, nephew, Duane Bruce; grandnephew and grandniece, Sean and Sydney; and a host of family and friends. 

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