Obituary of Bruce W. Alatary
Bruce W. Alatary, longtime resident of Denville NJ, left this earth on Friday, March 5, 2021 after a brief illness. He was 69 years old.
Bruce was born in Cranford NJ to Vernon and Rose (Waselewicz). After graduating from UMass Lowell with a BS in electrical engineering, he spent his professional career in the energy industry, working and consulting at fossil fuel, natural gas and nuclear facilities across the US as well as managing infrastructure projects on various bridges and tunnels in the NY metropolitan area. He devoted over two decades to civil service in Morris County including chairing the Construction Board of Appeals for many years.
Bruce’s interests and talents were boundless. He enjoyed spending time in the kitchen customizing recipes for his family and friends, he was an accomplished sailor, a private pilot, a skilled craftsman of furniture and a creative and exacting home renovator and builder. He loved the outdoors and after retirement traveled to a number of exotic locations with his long-time love Erika, always taking opportunities to sample the local culture and cuisine and explore the area by hiking, ziplining, kayaking, or any other opportunities that presented themselves.
Bruce was a friend and mentor to many throughout his lifetime and was always in demand for technical advice and assistance. He was always generous with his time and expertise and he will be greatly missed.
Bruce is survived by his loving sister Susan of Denville, his devoted partner and soul mate Erika Lopez-Henriquez of Rockaway, and his son David. He was also the adopted “Opa Bruce” to Erika’s two children Chris and Eva and five grandchildren, all of whom he loved as his very own.
A walk-through visitation in accordance with COVID-19 precautions will be held at Codey-Mackey Funeral Home in Boonton NJ on Friday, March 12 from 4-7 pm. Services will be private. A celebration of Bruce’s life with his family and friends will be held this Spring.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Bruce’s name to your local animal rescue organization, National Public Radio, or your favorite charity.
So many wonderful caretakers touched Bruce during his last days, but we would especially like to thank the palliative care team at NY Presbyterian Weill Cornell for their caring, professionalism, and endless compassion.