R. Bruce Cake's Obituary
R. Bruce Cake passed away on May 6, 2019 at the age of 76 in his home on Newnan’s Lake in Gainesville, Florida. He was surrounded in his finals days by his children Chris Cake, Melanie Cake, and Catherine Cake, and son-in-law Tom Bittikoffer, all of Gainesville. Bruce is survived by his children and his beloved grandchildren: Eric Conrad of Washington, DC; Cameron Conrad of Arvada, CO; Andrew Bittikoffer of Gainesville; and Ella Bittikoffer of Gainesville. He is also survived by his siblings: Barbara Nickel of Gainesville; Ed Cake of Ocean Springs, MS; Bill Cake of Gainesville; and Mary Cake Good of Alachua, FL.
Bruce was born on September 6, 1942 in Wilmington, North Carolina, the 4th of five children to Edwin “Ned” Cake and Dorothy “Dottie” Stevens Cake. Bruce had fond memories of his early childhood in Tidewater Virginia, which nurtured his lifelong passion for the great outdoors. When he wasn’t hunting or canoeing, Bruce was an avid reader of history. Always quick with an “I love you, kid,” Bruce was proud of his family and proud of his service to his country in the U.S. Army. Bruce’s friendly nature helped in his long career in hospital human resources, and his many friendships and knowledge of the local area led him to later careers in real estate and property appraisal. In his later years, Bruce enjoyed his retirement by the lake, popping in to visit his kids and local nephews, and going to “Man Night” dinner regularly.
Bruce was interred May 11, 2019 at Prairie Creek Conservation Cemetery according to his wishes. A Celebration of Life Service and potluck reception will be held at the United Church of Gainesville, 1624 NW 5th Avenue, Gainesville, FL, on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at 2:30pm. All are welcome to attend and share their good memories of Bruce.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to LifeSouth Regional Blood Center, a cause which Bruce supported & served throughout his adult life.
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