Bruce Eric Goodro of Worcester passed peacefully in his home on Tuesday, September 12 surrounded by loved ones, including his wife Nancy Gunning, his sons Nathan and Matthew, his brother Brian, his daughters-in-law Danielle (nee Gamache) and Amanda (nee Bates), and his beloved dog, Finnegan.

Bruce was born in Ware, Massachusetts to Wallace and Ernestine (nee Brusso). Bruce attended Assumption Preparatory School in Worcester and the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, where he met Nancy’s sister Kathleen, who introduced the two. Bruce and Nancy were married in 1972, a marriage that lasted more than 50 years until his death.

Following Bruce’s completion of his studies, which culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy degree, Bruce and Nancy relocated to Worcester. Bruce began his career as a data analyst with the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance, where he ultimately served as the Director of Program Assessment and where he would remain until his first retirement in 2013. Following several retirement parties and an epic family vacation to Ireland to mark the occasion, Bruce quickly returned to work as a consultant at the Department, where he continued part time for several more years. Bruce was proud of his long and distinguished career with the Department, he loved his work and many of his colleagues there.

Bruce gained his love of Boston sports teams from his father and passed this love on to his sons. Bruce was especially passionate about the Boston Red Sox and spent many memorable days and nights at Fenway Park, most notably with his sons at the series-clinching game six of the 2013 World Series. Bruce loved to travel and explore the art, food, and history of other cultures. A true technophile, Bruce lived on the cutting edge of all digital trends.

Bruce will be remembered by his family and friends for his warm and infectious smile, his sense of humor (which included a biting sarcasm), his generous spirit, and his kind heart. Above all, Bruce will be remembered as a devoted husband and loving father who put his family above all other things.

Bruce is also survived by his sisters Beth Green and Barbara Stone, sisters-in-law Kathleen Gunning and Regina McGuire, and brothers-in-law Robert and John Gunning. Bruce was pre-deceased by his sister Brenda Orciani and brother-in-law Thomas Gunning.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Bruce Goodro to support cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at jimmyfund.org/gift or P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284.

At the request of the family, there will be no public services. MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL is honored to assist.