Bruce Irving Oliver, age 85, of Fort Wayne, IN passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on October 28, 2024, at the age of 85. He was born on November 4, 1938, in Culver, IN, to Myra and Russell Oliver.

Bruce was known for his dedication to his family, his community, his church, his students, his golf teams, and his friends. Bruce and his wife, Karen, built a strong family, welcoming home, and supported each other well through all life's joys and trials. He had a knack for good puns and a few classic dad jokes, which he would unapologetically share with everyone he met. Sharing a laugh was his way of sharing love.

He spent most of his career teaching at Northrop High School in Fort Wayne from its beginning in 1971 and for over 40 years thereafter, touching the lives of thousands of students. Over those same decades, he was affectionately known as "Major O" at the Culver Academies Summer Camp program. He was a counselor and division commander, and Karen worked as camp nurse. Bruce taught countless kids how to make leather wallets in leather crafts, and bird watching. He had a gift for helping homesick campers connect with one another in the Culver spirit and by sharing his passion for learning.

Bruce's passion was golf. His tee shots weren't long, but they were as straight as Ben Hogan's, and his short game was surgically accurate. His proudest achievement on the course was coaching the Northrop Bruins boys' golf team to the Indiana State Championship in 1984.

A history teacher who took his civic duties seriously, Bruce served and was involved with numerous organizations, including Indiana High School Golf Coaches Association, Independent Educators of Fort Wayne, Allen County Retired Educators Association, Northrop High School Quarter Century Club, and the Old Brook Farm Neighborhood Association.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karen, to whom he was married for 64 years; his children, Cheryl Karn (Steve), Stephan Oliver (Rachelle), and Jeffrey Oliver (Kara); his brother, Russell (Susie) Oliver II; and his grandchildren, Laura, Claire, and Carter. He was preceded in death by his parents, Myra and Russell.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, November 1, 2024 at St. Joe United Methodist Church, 6004 Reed Road, Fort Wayne, IN with calling one hour prior. Visitation also 5:00 – 8:00 pm on Thursday, October 31, 2024 at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Culver Educational Foundation. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com