Bruce Eugene Garberding, January 26, 1949 – April 15, 2026.
Bruce was an Iowa farm boy through and through. He grew up with his loving parents, Ray and Lucille Garberding, on their farm near Albert City, Iowa.
Bruce’s childhood was idyllic, helping on the farm and loving all the farm animals and pets. Throughout his schooling at Albert City, Bruce participated in almost every activity they offered. He then completed a degree in Social Work at Wartburg College. After that Bruce then served in the U.S. Navy before going on to complete his master’s degree in social work at the University of Illinois.
Bruce then spent several years in Alaska working with the Alaska Natives. Other jobs included private practice therapy, and trainer for State of Alaska DSHS social workers and other human services.
In 1983, Bruce relocated to his favorite place in the world, Seattle.
He worked for several agencies before beginning his 25 years with the Seattle Housing Authority. He retired at the end of 2014, the same year he met and married the love of his life, Ron.
Bruce and Ron moved to their dream home in Kenmore a few years ago, while meeting lots of new friends and enjoying spending time with existing friends.
It was then that Bruce began volunteering with the Northshore Senior Center. He enjoyed this pursuit until his health issues forced him to step down from volunteering.
Bruce fought numerous health issues for 10 years with Ron by his side and with support from his friends he endured numerous treatments and surgeries. In the end we ran out of options and made the decision to pursue hospice. He wanted to express his gratitude to friends and family who offered so much love and support. (He died peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends).
All obituary information has been taken from the funeral home, newspaper or other online resource.
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