The obituary notice of Bruce Alan MARSH

I first met Bruce in the 2000s - but really, it was a couple of climbing trips with him in Innsbruck that I remember. He had an infectious optimism about him that convinced others that they could achieve what seemed out of reach, and so it was that we ended up having a great day on a frankly horrible, wet, hard, and barely solid crag in a cold wet gully on a sunny day in Austria. Mad, but somehow also just right.

While I mourn and grieve the passing of my best friend and my favourite person, he still manages to bring a smile when I think of all the things we have done together. He was an absolute GEM of a person.

I met Bruce during my University days. I lived together with him in University Halls and, thereafter, in several houses for a few years. Those were some of the best days of my life. There was never a dull moment when Bruce was around. I have so many incredible memories. They’re countless. What Bruce could do no one else could ever imagine, let alone think of doing. He was always up to something. Getting in trouble was second nature to him. But somehow, he managed to get out of it, too. The BRUCE stories are legendary. I have narrated those stories to so many people and everyone had become his fan. He touched so many lives even without ever meeting them.

His personality was infectious. Everyone loved Bruce. People did so not only because he did funny things but also because he was an incredibly good human being. Bruce lived his life with simplicity and modesty. He was always nice to everyone, never thought bad about anyone, always positive, calm, patient and innocent. He was a role model for me and others on how to live a good life.

Not just me, but people who have ever met Bruce can never forget Bruce. That’s why I am just saying goodbye and not Farewell, as he will continue to stay alive in the form of his stories, and he will continue to make us laugh.

I will miss you dearly, my friend. May God bless you.

Your mate,
Prasham

I knew Bruce from Manchester University climbing club when we started at uni in the same year. Bruce was a friendly, adventurous and lovely person who was always welcoming and kind. I have fond memories of spending time together with our big group of friends, climbing, sharing stories and having fun. I’m so glad to have known Bruce. My thoughts are with his friends and family, especially those closest to him.

I started climbing with Bruce and Sophie back around 2012/2013. The first thing one would notice about Bruce is that he is totally down to earth and a genuinely kind person with very little ego. Then you start spending time with him and realize that he had so many accomplishments: climbing >8a, publishing articles in nature, leading huge research grants and just genuinely being passionate and fearless. He accomplished more in 43 years than many would in 80+. He was always great for a coffee, cake and a chat and such a wonderful person. We miss him immensely.

I worked with Bruce directly and indirectly for more than 15 years at CERN and he never failed to impress me both with his knowledge of his field but even more so with his friendliness and his ability to communicate with his colleagues. He was simply a genuine nice person who knew what he was talking about and someone who had a lot more to offer to his entourage. Although my contact with Bruce has been limited since my retirement, it hurts to know that he is no longer amongst us and he will be missed by me and all those who had the chance to befriend him.
My thoughts are with his family and in particular, with Yisel and his 3 months old daughter, Oliana.

We have happy memories of Bruce, he was always fun, thoughtful and kind. His family and friends are in our thoughts

So sad to hear this news, Bruce was a very friendly, kind and gentle person, my condolences to all his family and friends

Bruce will remain in my memory as a always happy person. During the time we worked at CERN as well as after I left, Bruce shared his amazing stories and adventures. Sad and shocked to see him going.