With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Bruce Cheney at the age of 72. Bruce passed in Willow Creek. Bruce grew up in Philadelphia before moving to the West Coast in the 1980s. In Philadelphia growing up he was known as a bit of a boy scout, who shared fond memories with siblings canoeing, fishing, swimming, and riding bikes around the neighborhood with friends. He landed in Humboldt in the 1980s and told stories of how he traveled until he found trees he liked. He was a decorated Army veteran who served in Vietnam. Bruce was a retired welder/fabricator from Johnson Industries.

Bruce is preceded in death by his parents, Oliver Frank Cheney and Marjorie Cheney, as well as his forever love, Vicki Acosta. He is survived by his siblings: Phillip Cheney, Carol Vollman, Judy Moy, Jill Thomas, and Suzanne Duffy; his stepdaughter, Melissa Sanchez; his stepson, Carlos Acosta; and many grandchildren who already miss him dearly. He is also survived by his brothers- and sisters-in-law Jack and Leilani Deaver, Dan and Autumn Deaver, and Diana Carpenter; and numerous amazing nieces and nephews spanning from the East Coast to the West Coast.

Bruce became apart of the Deaver/Acosta family when he met and fell in love with Vicki Acosta. They had many happy years together and eventually landed in the community of Willow Creek where they enjoyed life. Bruce was a master storyteller. He was a tinkerer and fixed everything he laid his hands on. He never met a stranger, and his vibrant personality, quick wit and stories made him a beloved presence wherever he went. His ability to make others smile was a gift that will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was a member of the VFW in Willow Creek, where he could be found making pancakes for monthly breakfasts, supporting other veterans, telling stories, having drinks and building community. The VFW Post 9561 is a gathering spot that I will never forget or stop visiting. The support that the VFW Post 9561 has given will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Rest in peace, Bruce. You are loved beyond measure and your humor and warmth will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held on Saturday, January 18 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., at VFW Post 9561, 20 Gower Ln., Willow Creek. Sunday will be a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m.-11 a.m.