Bruce Longyear

Julian · August 27, 2010 12:22AM

My friend and colleague, Bruce Longyear, passed away last night from pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed less than 2 months ago and at the end probably decided that he did not want to suffer any longer, as he was not eating or drinking properly.

Originally from Rochester, NY, he later went to Boston where he worked for JJ Teaparty. He moved to MD and worked for me for several years. He remained my friend and computer consultant, as well. He also collected antique thimbles.

Our mutual friend Mark Strumpf was very involved with his care during this period and did all that he could do, including moving him into an assisted living facility, just last Friday.

Bruce's father and sister arrived several hours before he passed away, were able to speak with him, but couldn't convince him to eat and drink, as prescribed.

He certainly suffered during this past week, but didn't suffer as long as he could have.

RIP, Bruce.

savoyspecial · August 27, 2010 12:24AM

so sad to hear this Julian

thoughts are, of course, with the family

BillJones · August 27, 2010 12:43AM

Bruce Longyear was one of the best people I ever met in numismatics. He was totally a totally honest, fair and wonderful person who will be sorely missed. I have not had a lot of contact with him after he left JJ Teaparty, and only saw him occasionally at the large shows. His passing comes as a terrible shock.

Bruce and I had a “Mexican standoff” about a couple of coins. Years ago he wanted my 1792 half disme and I wanted an 1803 half dime that he had purchased at a Boston show. I told him that if he ever decided to sell the 1803 to please give me a first shot at it. Bruce was the first to blink, and true to his word he contacted me and told me he was ready to sell. He quoted a fair price, and I purchased the piece.

I also have number of hard bound auction catalogs that I purchased from Bruce’s library as well as his collection of vintage Red Books. They have his stamp in them still.

I respect Bruce's decision not to have a protracted battle with such an awful disease. I sincerely believe that he is now in a better place.

EagleEye · August 27, 2010 1:11AM

OMG. How sad. Bruce was a good friend and one of his favorite coins was an 1888/7 graded AU58 that just I sold for $30,000.

It was one of his favorite "I should never have sold that coin" coins.

So sad, and he was not that old - 50ish, I guess

ThePennyLady · August 27, 2010 1:32AM

Thanks Julian for letting us know. I too am shocked and very saddened by Bruce's passing. I only met him a couple times, but he was always a gentleman. My heart goes out to his family and friends.