Bruce John Young

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Bruce John Young, our ever loving and devoted husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, father, brother, and friend to all whose lives he touched, on March 4th, 2022. He was in his 71st year, born September 16th, 1950. Born and raised in Groton, MA, Bruce was loved by many. Prior to his very sudden cardiac arrest, which occurred upon arriving at Stewart Nashoba Medical Center in Ayer, MA, Bruce had survived multiple cancers while living in his retirement in Pepperell, MA. He attended Groton High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted and was off to the Coast Guard - Station Woodshole, MA. (1970-1974)  In the midst, he married his high school sweetheart, Debra Clark, at their hometown church, St. James (West Groton, MA), in 1972. Baby 1 of 4 made her way into the world in 1973 and started their beautiful family.

Bruce was the beloved father of Dawn Szczypinski (West Townsend, MA), Michael Young and fiancé Stephanie Adams (Nashua, NH), Tina-Marie Young (Nashua, NH) and Gregory Young (West Townsend, MA). He was the proud grandfather of Gabrielle Ortiz and husband Daniel Ortiz, Jacob Szczypinski, Elianna, Natalia, and Elijiah Fontanez, Jaxon Young. Additionally, he was a great-grandfather to Lorenzo, Xavier, and Isaac Ortiz. He was an uncle to many nieces and nephews and a friend to co-conspirator “Gilley”.  He was the beloved brother of Deborah Crawley and husband Allen Crawley (Waynesville, MO), Brenda Perkins (Providence, RI), Michelle Saball (Reading, MA), Lauri and husband Kevin Drew (Hudson, NH), and John Young III (Lowell, MA). Bruce was predeceased by his parents John “Jack” Young Jr. and Mildred (St. Cyr) Young, and sister Donna (Young) Cote.

Bruce lived a love filled life as a father, mentor, and longtime friend. He dedicated many years to his career of truck driving and transportation including moving campers from the manufacturer’s in Goshen, IN to dealers throughout the US and Canada along side his wife. When Bruce and Debbe decided to stop delivering campers, Bruce started Which Way Towing, LLC working for AAA. During his down time, he enjoyed Nascar, cool gadgets, watching sports and infomercials, poppycock popcorn, and his Cella's chocolate covered cherries. He was an avid bowler, bowling on the candlepin pro tour with appearances on many of the TV shows. His love of sports started with baseball in high school and softball later down the road. Cribbage, cornhole, and horseshoes were things he also enjoyed. Bruce was a loyal, long-time and lifetime member of the Nashua Lodge of Elks #720 Nashua, NH.

Most of all, he loved his family and friends and instilled good values in his children and grandchildren that have and will continue to serve them well over the years. Our Papa will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held at McGaffigan Funeral Home, 37 Main Street (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA, on Friday, March 11th, from 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice are requested in his name.