Obituary of Bruce Robert McGuire

Beloved Father, Cherished Friend Taken too soon, Bruce Robert McGuire passed away while surfing at Privates on Thanksgiving afternoon, November 22nd. He was an avid waterman and lover of the sea. Bruce was born in Portchester, New York on Sept. 27th 1948, one of the four children of Milton Robert McGuire and Marian Grace McGuire. Bruce was a family man, happily married to the love of his life, Penelope Louise McGuire, for over 36 years. He was the proud parent of 5 children and loving grandfather to 6 grandchildren. Bruce's family was his greatest joy. Bruce graduated from Chico State University in 1971 with a B.S. in business and a teaching credential. There, he apprenticed under Arthur E. Overholtzer who taught him the art of building a guitar. He collaborated in the writing of the book, Classic Guitar Making, and continued to build instruments until his death. He began his appraising career at the Santa Cruz County Assessor's Office while running and operating a local music store, the Guitar Works, on Pacific Avenue. He then purchased Western Appraisal Service, which he turned into a successful business. He culminated his career as the Probate Referee for Santa Cruz County. His insatiable thirst for adventure and knowledge were treasured by his friends and family. What he didn't know, he was anxious to learn. He was a surfer, guitar builder, vintage car aficionado, collector, licensed general contractor, Rotarian, world traveler, entrepreneur, former President of the Model A club and music lover, among many other things. He combined his skills as a teacher with his enthusiasm for music and industrial arts and his belief in education to found a Ukulele-building class in local junior high schools, Arts in the Afternoon, which was funded by the Sunrise Rotary of Santa Cruz. Bruce was a man of deep faith; he was known for his open arms and open heart. His joy was infectious and his passion unrivaled. Our loss will be felt throughout this community. Any kind acts of charity may be made in Bruce's memory to Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Club (PO BOX 7026 Santa Cruz CA 95061) Check Memo "Arts in the Afternoon" His memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 2nd at 1:30 p.m. Monschke Hall at Twin Lakes Church 2701 Cabrillo College Dr. Aptos, CA 95003