Bruce R. Banks

It is with great sadness that the family of Bruce R. Banks announces his passing on August 9, 2024, following a six-month battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, preceded by years of battling MDS. Known affectionately by many as "Ugly Bruce," he was a beacon of laughter, humility, generosity, and resilience. 

Bruce is survived by his wife of 58 years, Karen (King) Banks; his children, Eric Banks and SO Trina Austin, and his two children Demetria (Nick), their son Vincent, and Merrick; Alana Seddon and her husband Tom and their two children Peter (Liz) and Paul; Heidi DeGrazia and her husband Michael and their two children Nicola and Domenic; his brother, Ronald Banks and his wife Margo; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Roberta Banks, and his sisters, Brenda Buck and Elaine Clark.

Born on February 7, 1945, in Gardner, MA, Bruce spent his formative years in Petersham, and graduated from Mahar Regional High School (Orange, MA) with the class of 1963. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1965-1971, embodying the spirit of dedication and selflessness that would define his life. Bruce was an entrepreneur at heart, owning and operating Wholesale Carpet Service for 45 years. Infusing his unique personality into his business, he painted his company truck purple, a sight that became a beloved symbol of Bruce's presence in Athol. Bruce also worked in commercial trucking for over 25 years, hauling mostly oil across the northeast. Beyond his professional life, he was a man of many talents and interests. He was a creative problem solver, always tinkering, always finding ways to fix things relentlessly. His resilience was only matched by his humor, as he always found a way to make those around him laugh.

A devout Christian, Bruce was deeply involved in the Athol Congregational Church, serving as an usher, volunteering at church events, and in any capacity that was needed. His faith was central to his life, as reflected in one of his favorite verses, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28. He also was a member of the Petersham Lions Club, further exemplifying his commitment to service.

In Bruce’s later years, he was known to be camping in his 32-foot camper with friends and family. He and his wife, Karen, would spend many weekdays during the summer months at their favorite campgrounds enjoying fellowship, the outdoors, and meeting new people. 

Bruce's life was a testament to the power of love, generosity, and resilience. He was a man who cherished relationships, always striving to be helpful and productive. He was deeply proud of his children. Bruce’s legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know him. 

Due to Karen’s cancer treatment, please do not send flowers. The germs that come with live flowers are too much on her immune system while undergoing chemotherapy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Athol Congregational Church in Bruce’s memory. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 25, 2024 at 11:30AM at Athol Congregational Church, 1225 Chestnut Street, Athol, MA.

We invite you to leave your memories of Bruce and upload photos to his memorial page. It's a wonderful way to celebrate the life of a man who touched so many with his generous spirit, humor, and resilience.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.