Bruce Draper
July 18, 1954 - October 25, 2022
Bruce Draper, age 68, of Albuquerque, NM, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother was called home to the Lord on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 after a short but valiant fight with glioblastoma. He was born to Jeanette and the late J. Donald Draper on July 18, 1954 in Wilmington, Delaware.
Before graduating from the University of Delaware with a degree in electrical engineering, Bruce married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Ferenc. He went on to attend Princeton University Graduate school for electrical engineering. Bruce worked at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico for 42 years, where he was named Distinguished Member of the Technical Staff, specializing in microelectronics. He retired in 2019, giving him more time to pursue his wide-ranging interests in amateur radio, guitar, volleyball, dog agility training, and biking. He left an incredible legacy as a mentor to many, a loyal friend, and our fiercely dedicated patriarch.
Bruce is survived by his mother, Jeanette; sister, Barbara and her husband Steve Sylvester; wife of 46 years, Dorothy; 3 daughters, Alison and husband John Cummings, Bryn and husband Craig Hauquitz, and Catie and husband Ken Kraper; and 13 grandchildren, whom he dearly loved.
Bruce’s family invite you to join us for a memorial service at 1pm on Monday, November 21 at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 N. DuPont Parkway in New Castle, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Watermelon Mountain Ranch Animal Rescue, 1380 Rio Rancho Boulevard, SE, Suite374, Rio Rancho, NM 87124 or to a charity of choice.
Gloria Halsey
My condolences to his family may he Rest In Peace
Astrid M. Vander Heyden
Bruce was a dear high school friend. His loss is one I feel keenly. I offer my condolences to his family, and especially to my dear high school best friend, Dorothy, his bereaved wife of 46 years. My heart goes out to each of you as you carry out his legacy of goodness and caring. My prayer is that you will feel his support from the other side. Sending my love, prayers, and blessings at this difficult time.
Becky (Twilley) Jackson
Unfortunately I never got to know Bruce, but I know his wife. Dorothy, I send my condolences to you and your family. Sounds like he was a super guy and he has definitely left a legacy.
Tom Wilson
I was fortunate to reconnect with Bruce and Dorothy at the 50th reunion in May. Bruce and I had had some small adventures back in the day. I’m heart sick at his sudden loss.