Bruce D. McAtee

Bruce D. McAtee, age 75 of Lancaster, died Feb. 11, 2021, at home surrounded by family.  He was born to the late Harry and Gertrude Davis McAtee in Piqua, Ohio. The son of a plumber, he acquired no technical skills, which allowed his son to win a 'best design' trophy for a pinewood derby car that appeared to have been made by a 6 year old, but was in fact mangled into shape by Bruce himself. What he lacked in craftsmanship, he compensated in personality. A font of puns, jokes, and malapropisms, Bruce made friends with all he encountered, including numerous chagrined waiters and waitresses, and was a renowned doodler and aspiring cartoonist. A lifelong fan of sports and games of all kinds, he played Center for the Earlham College football team, graduating in 1968, later closely following the Browns and OSU, where he was a Red Coat for over 10 years. Following graduation he embarked on his lifelong calling in public service. After spending two years in the Peace Corps, he began a 34 year career at the YMCA, with his last 17 years as the Director for the Robert K. Fox Family YMCA. Following his retirement in 2005 he served as a Lancaster City Councilman, sat on the boards of United Way and Big Brothers Big Sisters, was President of the Lancaster-Sherman Rotary and was a member and supporter of many other charitable organizations, and was a longtime congregant of the First Presbyterian Church.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Nancy McAtee; children, Michael (Lauren) and Rebecca (Calvin); grandchildren, Morris and Ruby; brother, Alfred (Robin); and, several nieces and nephews,family and friends, all of whom will surely miss the opportunity for just one more board game or round of cribbage.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Colleen and Michael.

Caring Cremation has taken place through the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home.  Donations in Bruce’s name can be made to the Robert K. Fox Family Y, 465 W 6th Ave, Lancaster, OH 43130; FairHoPe Hospice 282 Sells Rd. Lancaster, OH 43130; Big Brothers Big Sisters, United Way,  or the charity of  your choice.  Online condolences can be made at www.funeralhome.com

A memorial service will be held at the Goslin Center located at Alley Park on Sunday, July 11th from 1PM until 5PM.  A celebration of Bruce's life will take place at 2PM Sunday.  Online condolences can be made at www.funeralhome.com  Caring Cremation has taken place through the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home.