Bruce Lewis Hare Sr.

Bruce “Rabbit” Hare, Sr., 90, of Bloomfield, passed away peacefully on November 8th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of wit, stubbornness, and a well-earned reputation as the family’s Encyclopedia on how to fix things.

 Born on February 24th, 1934, in Bloomfield, NM, Bruce lived a full life that balanced hard work with simple pleasures. Bruce started work on the family farm at a young age and, after high school, worked and retired from El Paso Natural Gas after 34 years. Bruce held various positions, including plant operator, welder, machinist, and NDT inspector. He then went into the environmental industry, co-inventing and receiving patent protection for a Mercury abatement pipe cleaning machine.

 While he took pride in his profession, his love for his family, shop, garden, and yard at home truly defined him. Bruce had a knack for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, whether it was tinkering in his shop or sitting in his favorite chair. His sense of humor was infectious, and his quick wit always brought a smile to those around him.

 He shared his life with Patricia, his devoted wife of 71 years, who stood by his side through every laugh, argument, and cherished memory. Together, they raised four children: Bruce Hare Jr. (Cheryl), Mike Hare (Gloria), Teresa Martinez (Randy), and Tim Hare (Kimberly), who all inherited a piece of their father’s grit, humor, and unyielding spirit.

Bruce’s legacy extends to 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, who were all fortunate enough to know the unique brand of love he showed—a mix of gruff advice and unsolicited opinions. One of his greatest joys was passing his skills on to his family. Bruce also contributed significantly to the community through his involvement in the Boy Scouts, where he was assistant scoutmaster of Troop 325. The troop took multiple 50-mile hikes in the Colorado Rockies and won several awards at scouting jamborees.

 Bruce’s favorite place remained his shop, where he found peace and purpose among his tools. Though ornery to the end, his heart was as big as his personality; he is deeply missed by all who knew him. The shop is quiet, but his spirit will linger on in every tool, every puff of pipe smoke, and every story we tell.

 A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.