Bruce “Tough” Anthony

Bruce was one of a kind, an unforgettable character to say the least. Born September 25, 1948 in Potsdam, New York, he spent his youth in Clarendon and Warren Pennsylvania, moved to Sheffield for his adult years before moving to California around 1980. After high school, he proudly served as a Marine in the Vietnam War. Bruce dutifully held the position of Radio Officer from November 1966 to March 1970. Bruce was tough as nails and fought for us to have the privileges we hold dear in our beautiful country. He was a humble, decorated veteran, a recipient of the following: Purple Heart, Bronze Star of Valor, Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Good Conduct, National Defense Service Medal and Rifle M-14 Marksman badge. After bravely serving 4 years of combat and surviving many harrowing escapes from death, he honorably exited the Marine Corps as Sergeant in 1970.

Bruce was a skilled Boilermaker/Blacksmith, for Local 0549, for 33 years. He was one of the hardest working men you’ll ever know. Bruce was as authentic as they come, never minced his words. Bruce was BRUCE, didn’t care what anyone thought of him, he was real as real can be. Bruce was a hero, not only to our country, but to his family, friends and strangers alike. He loved to sing and dance and tell stories about “Nam”. He loved to fish (even though he rarely caught any). People mattered to him, Bruce loved company, loved to make people laugh, and was always “awfully glad you met him”. Everyone was welcome at his table.

Always a soldier, his life devotion was to serve as a strong provider to his wife and children. Bruce was a family man with a full heart and carried on to have a loving & devoted family. A family that always showed up for him. He was their hero. Bruce is survived by his wife, Marie Anthony and their six children, Caroline, Denise, Junior, Chantal (spouse Brett), Angelique (spouse David), and Nathan (spouse Jade); his grandchildren, Candra, Cameron, Cody, Joseph, Aiven, Ivey, Ryder, Violette, Scarlett, Daniel, and Genevieve; and his great-grandchildren, Josephine and Luke.

We love you Bruce. Thank you for your patriotism and service to our country. Your dedication as a family man, friend, and soldier will never be forgotten.

Bruce will be honored on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at Lodi Funeral Home located at 725 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi, CA 95240. Graveside memorial and reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bruce’s name to the PTSD Foundation of America: Tribute or In Honor Donation