Bruce Gunter Scotland

Sep 29, 1950 -

Apr 3, 2026

Bruce Gunter Scotland, 75, died peacefully on April 3, 2026, at his home on the Oregon Coast surrounded by his family.

Bruce was born in Bangor, Northern Ireland, on Sept. 29, 1950. In 1955, his family immigrated to Canada, initially settling in Calgary, Alberta. Bruce attended Skaneateles High School in upstate New York. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee. Attending graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he met his future wife Sheila Burke.

Bruce's love of the written word led him to become a high school English teacher. He taught for three years in the Milwaukee area. This was an important period in Bruce's life, in which he formed some of his most cherished and lifelong friendships.

Opportunity for adventure came to Bruce and Sheila in 1981, when they moved to Noorvik, Alaska, where they went to teach high school. After a year in Noorvik, they moved to Anchorage, settling eventually in Eagle River, Alaska. They had three children there, Conor, Brennan and Erinn, and would call Eagle River home for 34 years. Alaska was their true home and their joy.

Bruce loved cars, and became Sales Manager at European Motors in Anchorage, earning the distinction of being the top Saab sales manager in the United States. He later went to work at Arctic Beauty Supply. After a number of years leading sales, he became owner of the company.

Bruce was a gifted writer and speaker with a deep love of music and language. He was a truly kind man whose warm presence was always welcome and who left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Known for his eloquence, he gave many memorable toasts, delivered moving speeches at birthdays and retirements, and officiated at the weddings of friends.

After retiring, Bruce and Sheila enjoyed traveling, visiting their children and continuing to explore Alaska. Eventually, they moved to the Oregon Coast, closer to their children.

Bruce shared three children with Sheila: Conor, Brennan and Erinn. He is also remembered by his grandchildren, Mary and Emmett, and by many dear friends. He is greatly missed.