Bruce J. Altrath, 62, passed away at home in Middletown on Thursday, December 8. He was born in Union to the late Oscar Altrath and Marion (O’Brien). He lived in North Brunswick before settling in Middletown/Red Bank 14 years ago. Bruce graduated from Union County College with his associates’ degree in commercial art. He was a retail manager for A&P, Pepperidge Farms and Walgreens for over 30 years before becoming disabled in 2010. He was a communicant of St. Anthony R.C. Church.
Bruce enjoyed and excelled at drawing and painting; he had a passion for the water, music, comedies, wine country and going on cruises. Bruce was endearingly known as Mr. Christmas with his creative Dickens’ Village displays and panache for decorating. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends and always kept them laughing.
Bruce is survived by his beloved wife, Bernadette Altrath (Taylor) of 35 years. Also, surviving are his loving siblings: Linda Appello and her husband Frank, Robert Altrath and his wife Denise; his brother-in-law, George F. Taylor; sister-in-law, Colleen Clancy; his nieces and nephews, Frank and Christy Appello, Keith and Megan Appello, Joanne Altrath and George F. Taylor; and many loving grand nieces and nephews.
John E. Day Funeral Home, Red Bank, was in charge of arrangements. Memorial donations may be made in Bruce’s memory to American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005 Boston, Mass. 02241-7005 Please visit Bruce’s memorial website at johnedayfuneralhome.com.
