Bruce C. Danville

Bruce C. Danville, 86, of Ellenburg Depot, passed away peacefully at his home on January 8, 2025. Bruce was born in Plattsburgh on February 21, 1938, to Army Lieutenant Colonel Wallace J. Danville and Mildred M. Danville. Although he spent much of his life in Plattsburgh, Bruce also treasured his childhood years with his family in Frankfurt, Germany, where his father was stationed after World War II, creating lasting memories during those formative years. Bruce’s love of music began early. He graduated from Our Lady of Victory Academy (OLVA) in Plattsburgh in 1957, where he could always be found near a melody. As a teenager in the 1950s, Bruce began playing guitar, and in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, he performed as a member of several well-known local rock bands, including The Thunderbolts, Bill Kennedy and the Twiliters, The Clock, The Nomads, and Yankee Hammer. At Nelson’s Music Center in Plattsburgh, Bruce helped and influenced many North Country musicians over the years. In the 1960s, he recorded music in New York City and Boston, showcasing his talent in professional recording settings. Over the years, Bruce transitioned to playing bass guitar and keyboards, and his passion for music remained a constant throughout his life. In 1994, Bruce embarked on his final musical chapter, founding The Bootleg Band with his son Scott and daughter Kristin. The band became a prominent part of the local music scene, and Bruce continued to perform with other members of that band into his early 80s, known for his steady bass lines, keyboard riffs, and passion as a musician. His tireless weekend-after-weekend performances for decades at local clubs, late into the night, were a testament to his love for playing music. Bruce’s career also included 40 years of work as a respected automotive mechanic. He ran his own business, S&S Auto, on Margaret Street before joining the team at Nissan in Plattsburgh, where he worked until his retirement in 2003. Bruce’s abilities as a mechanic were as remarkable as his musical talents, reflecting his dedication and skill in all aspects of his life. In his personal life, Bruce was just as devoted. He married Carole A. (MacRae) in 1962, and together they had three children: Sherry, Scott, and Kristin. Later in life, Bruce married Caroline (LaPorte), and they shared 33 years together in Ellenburg Depot. In addition to his musical legacy, Bruce will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and his unwavering dedication to his family, music, and animals. He touched the lives of everyone he met with his warmth and generosity. Bruce was predeceased by his parents, Wallace and Mildred; his sister, Brenda; and his first wife, Carole. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Caroline; children, Sherry (Douglas) Lyon, Scott (Diana) Danville, and Kristin (Michael) Delisle; his grandchildren, Cody, Madison, Zöe, Mia, Cameron, Max, Hailley, McKenzie, Benn, Jacob, and Madeleine; his stepchildren, Donny (Heidi) Barber and Travis (Samantha) Barber; and his step-grandchildren, Donny (Savanna), Amanda, Brandon (Jayd), Archie, and Kai; and his step-great grandchildren, Donny, Lily, and Walker. Bruce was always a devoted pet owner and animal lover, and no one could deny the bond he shared with his beloved dogs. One of his dogs, Bubba, was often seen as a companion during Bruce’s later musical endeavors, where Bruce even named his music publishing company BubbaDawg Music. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Elmore SPCA or any animal shelter of your choosing in his name. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home, 29 Broad Street, Plattsburgh, New York, followed by a funeral service at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Father Reamer. Burial will take place in the spring.