BRUCE ROBERTS Obituary

Bruce John Roberts 1949 ~ 2010 Bruce John Roberts, age 61, died on March 13 due to complications of melanoma, family at his side.Best known for his role in Cosmic Aeroplane Books and Records, he remained in the book business until his death, most recently employed by the University of Utah Press as director of marketing and sales. Graduated from Skyline High School where he managed the football team, earned several journalism awards and an academic scholarship. Attended the University of Utah where he served as sports editor for The Daily Utah Chronicle, presented several significant bands in the Union Ballroom including The Grateful Dead, and was active in the political dissent of the times. Bruce was fiercely dedicated to his work but managed always to keep it entertaining. He loved being on the road, exploring new territory and eating great food. His priorities changed somewhat with the arrival of Andrew, Sam and Hannah. He has instilled in them his same love of travel, food, adventure and of course reading. Bruce has affected many lives and leaves a huge void. His family, now in great sadness, includes children Andrew, Sam and Hannah; their mother, Julie Howell; sister Becky Sue Roberts; brother Dan of the Utah Jazz and wife Jane Ann; nephew Jeremy Roberts and wife Aimee; niece Amy Bolton and husband Brad; multiple grand nieces and one grand nephew. Great thanks to the staff of the melanoma clinic at the Huntsman Center, particularly Leann, and to the multitude of physicians and nurses involved in his care at the University of Utah Medical Center. Melanoma is a preventable disease. Protect yourself from sun exposure, avoid tanning booths. Family recommends donations to the Huntsman Cancer Center. An open house celebration in Bruce's honor will be held on April Fool's Day at Red Butte Gardens from 5 - 8 p.m., 300 Wakara Way, above the University of Utah Research Park research area. An intimate gathering for family and close friends will follow. Condolances at www.starksfuneral.com

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Published by Deseret News on Mar. 21, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for BRUCE ROBERTS

10 Entries

Dianne Chrismer

April 1, 2010

As I sit here writing this, I realize it's the evening of April 1, and I feel a tremendous sadness. I met Bruce a number of years ago when we hired him as our sales rep at Fulcrum Publishing. It was the one of the best decisions we ever made. And not just because he had a great work ethic, knowledge of and passion for the business -- but because it gave me an opportunity to get to know him. He was honest, straight-forward, and I loved his LAUGH! He could always turn a situation into laughter. Besides that, he was a dog lover and a Rockies fan too! I didn't get to spend much time with Bruce, but he was a rare bird in this business and one not to be forgotten. As David Quinn mentioned in his message, a tribute to Bruce is being planned for Denver (date now set for April 29), so if anyone reads this who would like to be there -- please come. We hope Bruce will be pleased.

David Quinn

April 1, 2010

I've had the pleasure of knowing and working with Bruce since the late 90s and am so glad I got to know him even better over the past 5 years. I'm a Denver based sales rep and we tried to meet as often as possible on the road. He was always extremely generous in sharing information about bookstores and booksellers; always willing to give me tips and info to make my life easier. I had the most fun with Bruce at Jazz or Rockies games, (and at Squatters or Denver brewpubs!) We loved talking baseball and everything related to the book industry. Opening Day just won't be the same without Bruce. We were fellow road warriors and I shall miss him terribly. I can still hear his funny voice-mails in my head. We often felt like we were the only 2 reps who visited stores well off the beaten path. Those of us in the Denver book community are sad we'll miss the SLC celebration of his life. We send our deepest condolences to the family. We are putting together a tribute to Bruce to be held in Denver in the near future. Dan and Becky, Andrew, Sam, and Hannah - we hope that will be ok with you. Please know I'll be present in Salt Lake in spirit the evening of April 1st.

Sue Husch

March 23, 2010

I first met Bruce when I started work at the bookstore at Dinosaur National Monument in 1991. He "broke me in" to the book biz. I relied on his humor, his knowledge, and his willingness to share both. No matter where I've moved we have been able to stay in touch and he was always such a positive force. I am so sorry for his family - please know I'm holding you in my heart.

March 22, 2010

Dear Binsky, The name is familiar. Did Bruce give it to you? He renamed most friends and family members. Thank you for your remarkable summation of my brother. I too worked at Cosmic. The money was insignificant. Being there for the holidays was everything. He never offered me health insurance. The consistently respectful and endearing comments from all keep me weeping. Without him I am left in such sorrow, bored, lonely, longing for more of his humor, his intellect, his cooking,his political savvy, his fatiguing one liners, his company. Thanks to all for your memories.
Becky Sue Roberts, his sister.

Tina Parsons

March 22, 2010

Bruce was so unique and so wonderful. I will miss you! It has been a very long time since I saw you last, and after I stopped working at Cosmic, we kind of went our separate ways. I will always remember your wit, your humor and your courage! I have never forgot about you, and now kick myself for not taking the time to look you up. The tears are genuine, and I will miss you very very much!

Linda Loma

March 21, 2010

Dan and Jane Ann,
I was saddened to learn of the passing of your brother and I extend my sincerest sympathy. Having endured the loss of my sibling, Laura, also to cancer not so long ago, I truly share your grief and sorrow. Please know that you are in my thoughts. Linda Loma

March 21, 2010

Bruce was a great boss. Thirty years ago, he paid fair wages, gave generous raises and great bonuses. He provided ‘cadillac’ heath insurance before the term was coined. He put on lavish spreads of good food to keep us going during the Christmas season (it was called that, back then). Christmas at Cosmic was exciting and energizing, not exhausting. He encouraged creativity and drew it out of those of us who thought we didn’t have a creative bone in our bodies. As a matter of course, he practiced tolerance, promoted diversity and provided transparency before these became institutional and corporate catchwords for the same old BS. He didn’t ask for input, he asked for ideas. Bruce never micromanaged, he led – with courage, confidence and charisma. He didn’t have to think outside the box and didn’t have to ask his staff to do so. For him, there was no box. Thinking was allowed. He had a smart, sharp wit that kept us laughing and allowed us to be smart as well. His eclectic tastes and never-wavering passion for books and music was infectious and I learned from him more about basketball and baseball than I ever wanted to know. But now I do. Becky and Dan, I am so sorry for your loss.

Binsky

Dan Roberts

March 21, 2010

Bruce,
I wish only to tell you how much I love and miss you. There is such a gap with your passing but I have a lifetime of memories to fill that hole.
I am honored to be your brother and I
will keep you in my heart always.
Get used to this type of message, the world will honor you with its thoughts as time passes.
I love you Bruceco,
Dan

John Curtis

March 21, 2010

One had to greatly repect Bruce for his unigue indivualality...there were none like him. My sincere condolences to the family. May he rest in peace.

March 21, 2010

Cosmic Aeroplane was one of my favorite stores. I spent many happy hours browsing and finding books and records that couldn't be found any where else. I still miss going there.

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