RIPLEY - Bruce Deering, 66, died peacefully at his home January 16, 2022 surrounded by his family. He had nine lives and used them all to the fullest. Bruce was born May 17, 1955 in Dexter a son of Donald and Marge (Gould) Deering. He grew up in Ripley and never left, residing at the home he and his wife Genie of 41 years created for the family. After graduating from Dexter Regional High School in 1973 he started his career journey. He was self- taught always learning from his co-workers. He worked as an auto body technician for Hartley's, Prouty's Auto Body and Mike's Auto Body. He was also an industrial painter for Cianbro, a carpenter and woodsman for Gordon Bubar and a farmer for Andrew Sevey. He was also a wood processor and truck driver for Thomas Fire Wood, saying he was still learning his last day of work. Bruce spoke the Maine language with the original accent always adding his own phrases. His early years were spent at the Winterport Dragway or at the Cambridge flats racing. It didn't matter as long as he was shifting gears and burning tires. He was the family provider, protector and was an unconditional loving father. He enjoyed many Sunday afternoons listening to his grandchildren and watching everybody laugh. Bruce is survived by his beloved wife Genie of Ripley; his son Barry and wife Mandee of Dexter; daughter Liza McTighe and fiance Scott McCaul, Sr. of St. Albans; nine grandchildren, Izzy, Mathison, Kaylee, Caden, Macey, Addy, Ella, Ava, and Henry; and a great granddaughter Maddison; sisters Kim Conway and husband Andy of Greenville, Tammy Sherburne and husband Rick of Ripley; sister-in-law Patricia Smith and husband Clay of Oakland. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his in laws James and Alberta Nutting and brother-in- law Bob. Bruce will always be remembered by family, neighbors and friends. A celebration of life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Make A Wish Foundation. "Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body; but rather to skid in a broadslide in a cloud of smoke thoroughly used up totally worn out and loudly proclaiming 'Wow what a ride!'" Hunter S. Thompson