THOMASTON — Bruce A. Royer, 65, died peacefully Jan. 10, 2016, at home, surrounded by his loving family, following an extended illness.

Born in Thomaston on Dec. 18, 1950, he was the son of Rowley and Marie Marr Royer. Educated locally, he attended Warren and Rockland schools.

Following high school, Bruce began his working career. A hard worker his entire life, he was employed at an early age with National Sea Pro, Steele Pro, Maritime Energy and Steele and Marshall. Most recently he has been employed with the Knox Center for Long Term Care as director of the physical plant for over 20 years. Over the years, Bruce became very well known, and well loved, making many friends there.

Bruce loved being outside, especially working in his yard and tending his gardens. He always had a bountiful harvest and could be found canning and pickling the fruits of his labor. Family and friends alike were always thrilled to receive one of his gifts.

Family was Bruce's number one priority. He loved nothing more than gathering everyone around, especially for cookouts and campfires. He had a giving heart and would bend over backwards for anyone if they were in need. He was always thinking of others before himself, and always worried about 'his girls.' Their happiness was his happiness. He also had a special place in his heart for his dogs, especially Gracie and Zeus.

Not only did Bruce spend his days working at the Knox Center, he often volunteered during his free time as well. He could be seen each year helping move residents to their shady side of Main Street to watch the Maine Lobster Festival Parade, and he participated every year in the Alzheimer’s walks to help raise funds.

He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Predeceased by his siblings, Peter Royer, Jane Hannan and Nonie Robinson; and a brother-in-law, Donald Simmons; Bruce is survived by his daughters, Lisa Royer and her fiancé, Jim Moore, of Thomaston, and Angie Bunker and her husband, Loren, of Thomaston; three grandchildren, Tasha Bodman of Warren, Erinn Bendtson and her husband, Ben, of Union, and Tyler Philbrook of Rockland; four great-grandchildren, Lyford Bunker, Isabelle Philbrook, Brayden Bendtson and Tyler Philbrook Jr.; his brothers, Ken Royer and his wife, Wanda, of Lampasas, Texas, and Richard Royer and his wife, Barbara, of Floral City, Fla.; his sister and brothers-in-law, Shirley Simmons of Cushing, Roger Hannan of Rockland and Stanley Robinson of Lincolnville; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Visiting hours were held Jan. 14, 2016, at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bob Gagnon Cancer Care Center, c/o Pen Bay Health Care, 22 White Street, Rockland, ME 04841.