Barbara E. Bruce

Barbara Erhart Bruce, known as “Bo” to her friends, passed away early the morning of November 9, 2013, at the age of 80, while sleeping comfortably at home with her family present. Set free from cancer, she is survived by her husband, Wayne Bruce; her two children, Jeff Erhart and Jan Erhart; three grandchildren, Becky, Jennifer and Sam; and her great granddaughter Avery.

Growing up in Northern California, Barbara taught piano, and volunteered her time with Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts, while actively raising her family. She took up tennis as the kids got older and developed a strong passion and love of the game.

After relocating to Southern California in the early 80's, she teamed up with a wonderful group of women, playing tennis for the A Team of the Ojai Valley Athletic Club. Barbara remained an active member of the team until 2011. These ladies became some of her closest friends and have provided continuous love and support to her and her family over the years. Prior to her illness, Barbara served over 20 years as a volunteer for the Ojai Tennis Tournament, both as secretary and desk manager at the Villanova and Thacher School tournament sites. Quick Start, a program to promote tennis to youth, was a place that you would find Barbara tossing tennis balls to youngsters, sharing her love of the game.

Barbara spent her summers in Lake Tahoe, continuing a tradition her family had started in her teens. Always fond of games, Barbara loved to play bridge and made frequent gambling trips to the Tahoe casinos and the Chumash Casino to play video Keno. Not one to shy away from technology, she texted with friends and researched new recipes to make for her family and friends to enjoy.

Barbara was an inspiration to her tennis team, friends, and family with her passion for life, positive attitude, and fun loving spirit. These traits were never more apparent than during her ups and downs of cancer treatments. Her memories and example will live on forever with those she touched.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 pm, on Sunday, November 24, 2013, at Barbara and Wayne's home.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura. Condolences may be left at TedMayrFuneralHome.com.