— from Sue Lewis —

Saturday, January 23, Fireside Room in the Family Center of the Community Church from 2 to 4 p.m.

Bruce Stephenson

Bruce Stephenson

Bruce Stephenson, a 25-year Orcas Island resident, passed away on November 11, 2015, with close friends holding his hands.

He was born in Seattle, Washington and raised in Newport, Oregon. He led a colorful life, working in several states across the country before returning to the Pacific Northwest and settling on Orcas Island. He was a chef for several restaurants and bars in Eastsound, including The Lower Tavern, Vern’s, The Outlook Inn and the Mansion Restaurant at Rosario Resort. He made many island friends through this work. His passions were cooking, music and hanging out with friends and family. His favorite bands included The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Grateful Dead

Bruce dearly loved his family. He will be missed by daughter Tawnia Schwarting, grandchildren Kaaryn, Bailey and Owen, as well as cousins and other relatives. His friend and neighbor, Annie Miner, was his primary caregiver for several years until his death. She misses him greatly. He is also missed by his faithful canine companion, Barney, that stayed by Bruce’s side as he fought his final illness. Barney never left him.

Please join us for a Celebration of Life where we will share stories and music from some of Bruce’s favorite collections. Come and share your memories. Everyone is welcome.