Kenneth Eugene Bruce
Born on August 27, 1957 in Neptune, New JerseyPassed on January 23, 2026 in Palm Bay, Florida
Kenneth Eugene Bruce, 68, of Palm Bay, FL, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026.
Ken was born on August 27, 1957 to James William Bruce and Elizabeth Clare Schmitt in Neptune, New Jersey. After Ken graduated from Melbourne High in 1975, he went on to study Drafting at Brevard Community College.
Later, he became a jack-of-all-trades. Excelling in businesses ranging from beauty schools, warehouses, convenience stores, rental cars, steel buildings to his final pride and joy as an antiques, ceramics and porcelain specialist.
In 1990, Ken met Beth in Houston, Texas. They married in August 1991. Ken and Beth went on to have two children, Victoria and Kenneth. They were together for 35 years.
Ken enjoyed his time boating, fishing, traveling, listening to music, and critiquing media. He loved sweets and snacks. He truly enjoyed shopping and finding his unique treasures.
Ken was predeceased by his father James William Bruce; stepfather Ignazio Cucchiara and nephew Scott Robertson.
He is survived by wife Beata “Beth” Bruce; daughter Victoria (Tristan Saenz) Bruce; son Kenneth (Faith Taylor) Bruce, Jr.; mother Elizabeth Clare Cucchiara; sister Judy (Charlie) Robertson; brother James (Patty) Bruce, Jr.; sisters Constance (Raymond) Ingham and Carol (Barry) Whalen; brother Robert (Sharon) Bruce, as well as 8 nieces and nephews.
Services are being planned to be held at Brownlie-Maxwell Funeral Home, 1010 Palmetto Avenue, Melbourne, Florida 32901, on February 28, 2026.
His life was a diverse tapestry with much love and many highlights. He found ways to laugh, joke, and smile in his final days. He will be remembered for his wit, diverse knowledge, and fervor for life.
