Obituary of Bruce B. Breiling
Bruce Branner Breiling passed away on Friday, June 5, 2026. He was born November 23, 1935, the son of Lily Ellen Branner and Harold Frank Breiling, Sr.
Bruce grew up in Clinton, Connecticut, where he attended local schools. He graduated from the University of Connecticut with a degree in Political Science. He began his career as a Connecticut Career Trainer in the State Welfare Department and went on to hold numerous positions across state agencies. Throughout his professional life, he was guided by a deep belief in fairness, justice, and ethical practice.
After retiring, Bruce devoted himself to his lifelong love of Vermont. A true naturalist, he was deeply knowledgeable in entomology, ornithology, and geology. He found joy in the smallest and grandest wonders of nature, from meteors and storms sweeping across the five ridges to fireflies flickering at dusk. He had a particular fondness for trees and flowers, especially his beloved “Showy Lady Slipper.” Maple syrup and chocolate were among his simple pleasures.
Time in Vermont was filled with cherished traditions—dinners on the deck, sharing laughter with friends and family, and his weekly trips to the dump, which he genuinely enjoyed. He delighted in hand-delivering the Sunday New York Times to neighbors, a small act that reflected his thoughtful nature. Every August, he spent treasured time with his favorite brother-in-law, Joe. Together they listened to opera and classical music, discussed life, and, as the sun set over the ridge, Bruce would say, “Let us repair to our chairs and have our Scotch.”
Bruce was a gifted woodworker and could fix almost anything. He was known for his quick wit, his ability to recite limericks and aphorisms, and his distinctive, memorable laugh.
He shared many happy years with his wife, Elissa. Together, Bruce and Elissa opened their home and their hearts to family and friends, forming lasting bonds and creating countless joyful memories. They were truly a remarkable team who embraced and shared their love of life with others.
Bruce is survived by his wife, Elissa Breiling; his children and their spouses, Raye (Mark) Brooks, Brian McGuinness, Mark McGuinness, Irene (Jeffrey) Kopp, Steven (Patricia) McGuinness, and Ellen Breiling (Reggie Amidon); and Elissa’s children, Brendan (Lisa Fitzgerald) and Timothy Imbriaco (Elyse Phillips). He is also survived by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his nieces Jeanne Breiling (Spencer Moore) and nephew Danny Breiling.
He was predeceased by his brother, Frank Breiling, and his sons, Peter and John Whitaker McGuinness.
Bruce once said, “I lived and then I died. I was here and then I was gone.” Those who knew him will remember how fully he lived, the joy he shared, and the lasting impression he leaves behind.
The family extends special thanks to Bruce’s devoted caregivers—Max, Lynn, Leslie, Tammy, and Selena—for their compassion, care, and kindness.
A memorial service will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 10 at 12noon in Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury. Calling hours will be held at the funeral home from 10am to 12noon prior to service. Bruce was a voracious reader and donations may be made in his name to Chelsea Public Library, 296 VT-110, Chelsea, VT 05038.