On the morning of December 8th, 2022, Bruce Syarto passed away peacefully in hospice at the age of 80 in Melbourne, Florida. Bruce was born to Edward and Dorothy Syarto on January 4th, 1942, in New Haven, Connecticut. Bruce joined the United States Air Force in 1960 and served his country within the 39th OMS, 39th Bomb Wing, 8th Air Force at Eglin AFB until 1964. Upon departure from the military, Bruce maintained his desire to serve in other ways; he joined Sikorsky Aircraft and worked on the Presidential helicopter overhaul along with manufacturing Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard helicopters. In 1988, Bruce joined the Military Sealift Command at Port Canaveral, supporting range tracking ships. Bruce was selected as a contract administrator in 1989, transferring back to the Air Force, working on various launch base support and technical services contracts. Before his retirement in 2006, as Program Support Manager, he managed 69 launches. His launches include the first Mars Pathfinder and the Mars Rover "Spirit and Opportunity." He had been recognized for his achievements by the Air Force and the Department of Defense.

As his grandchildren affectionately referred to him, Papa Bruce was an active member of the Suntree Methodist Church in Melbourne and a participant in the choir. He was part of the Fife and Drum at St. Augustine Night Watch. Before relocating to Florida, he participated as a Fife player at the Westbrook Connecticut Muster. In addition, he participated in the Barnum Festival and sang at the United Congregational Church.

Bruce leaves behind his loving wife, Roseann. Daughter Dorothy (Nick) Doria, son-in-law Michael (Linda) Collins. Grandchildren Pastor Sean (Marissa) Collins, James (Sarah) Collins, and Madison McEachern. His nephews Jon Syarto and David (Susan) Syarto. Sister-in-law Diane (Neil) Minto, nephew Eric Minto, and niece Jennifer Minto. Along with many loving friends and acquaintances from along the way. His brother, Gene Syarto, predeceases him.

A memorial service will be held on January 4th, 2023, at 10 am at Davis Seawinds Funeral Home 560 Montreal Ave. Melbourne, FL. Memorial donations/in place of flowers, the family, please ask that you donate to the Alzheimer's Association for research in tribute.