Bruce Pethel

On June 24, 2014 the 10:03 am Train for Heaven left the station and Bruce Pethel was in the cab with the Engineer. In December, 1940 I, Bruce Pethel, became Bud and Eloise Pethel's first Blessing. I occasionally participated in learning activities in Landis schools, eventually graduating from high school in 1959; a feat that surprised everyone in Rowan County. I was well-known and liked by everyone except those who didn't like me. I completed a 22 year career in the U.S. Air Force and often felt that my most special times were as an Air Force Recruiter. I love women and children but foreverness wasn't my forte. An early marriage gave me Myra, John, and Paul, three shinning lights, before I ran away from home. My second journey into married life ended when a brain tumor took Sylvia away. After retiring from the Air Force, I joined the civilian work community, enjoying duties in fields such as transportation, automotive, and beach living. I made sure I left my Earthly assignments owing nothing material to anyone. Regretfully, I owed much more, that I failed to pay properly, to my children; and I've prayed for their forgiveness. My big hope is that I have lifted the spirits of folks around me, have been a friend to those who needed one, and made just a small difference while I was on my last tour of duty. Hartsell Funeral Home in Concord, NC will be managing my cremation arrangements, I won't be there but my daughter, Myra Mahoney and son John Blackstock will meet and shake the hand of anyone who would like to shake hands. This will take place on Friday, June 27, 2014 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Hartsell Funeral Home in Concord So long and farewell.