– Bruce Estridge, 52, of Mars Hill, departed this life unexpectedly on Friday, May 4, 2012, at his residence. He was the son of Katherine James Estridge and the late Ronald Estridge. He was born in Charlotte. Bruce graduated from Enka High School in 1977 and attended North Carolina State University and graduated from Western Carolina University with degrees in biology and environmental health. Bruce lived most of his life in Western North Carolina, the past twenty years in Mars Hill, N. C. He worked for the United States Post Office as a Rural Letter Carrier in Candler, N. C. Bruce was a devoted husband and father; he adored his family and was so very proud of his children. Bruce was an avid outdoorsman, intrigued by God's creation and wonderment, seizing each and every day to the fullest. He loved hiking, skiing, backpacking, caving, fishing and studying the bible. Bruce was a member of Biltmore Church of Christ in Asheville, N. C.
As a youth Bruce was a very active member of Boy Scout Troop #8 of Asheville. Bruce was an active member of the Wolf Ridge National Ski Patrol, served as an outdoor Emergency Care Instructor and mentor to new ski patrol candidates. Bruce was also an active member of the Flittermouse Grotto of the National Speleological Society and enjoyed leading caving tours and attending educational caving events.
Surviving are his wife of 26 years Sue Scott Estridge, children; Katie Elizabeth Estridge and son, Joseph "Joey" Denman Estridge all of the home. Father and mother-in-law, Dr. Lee Scott and Judy Scott both of Chapel Hill, siblings; Cynthia Estridge Pigg of Myrtle Beach, S., C. and John Thomas Estridge of Seneca, SC.
A celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, May 20, 2012 at 2:00 PM at Mars Hill Baptist Church in Mars Hill. All are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, an educational fund has been set up for Bruce's children through the NC State Employees' Credit Union. Please make checks payable to Sue Estridge, c/o NC-SECU, PO Box 920, Weaverville, N. C. 28787.