Farewell to Bob Brueckner
Bob Brueckner died this past Sunday. He was in hospice care and his wife, Suzanne Corr, was with him. Bob’s health has been declining for many months, but he remained active physically, walking and paddling as he could. His devotion to the Carolina Canoe Club and to the conservation of the rivers and streams of North Carolina remained strong until the end.
Bob was a five-term President of the CCC and held the Conservation Chair post for many years. With a career in the newspaper business, Bob shared his knowledge in helping maintain club communications. He wrote his last article for our journal in October. Bob was at the December Club social and meeting in Greensboro and he paddled on the annual Fall Colors trip in October. Suzanne was constantly with him – helping him and encouraging him and occasionally telling him to slow down.
A Celebration of Bob’s life is planned for Friday, March 14, at 11am, at the NC Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill. Further details will be available closer to the date.
Bob had a gentle but persistent touch. We’ll miss his guiding hand and sharing spirit.
Thank you, Bob, for welcoming me into the paddling community, always being willing to teach and encourage me, for being humble despite your great skills, for never feeling like a river was beneath you, for your joy that you shared with many. Your warmth, kindness, and graciousness will always be remembered. You will be greatly missed!
Bob was one of the kindest people I have met. I will never forget how he patiently taught me how to learn kayaking skills through a part of the Haw River that I usually just quickly paddled through. He showed me the beauty of slowing down, appreciating each rapid, learning to control my strokes and to improve even on small ripples. He had such a kind heart and was so patient. He will definitely be missed!