Bruce Ohmann lived life to the nth degree! Though his heart may have failed he never
failed to have heart. He lived life with passion and the determination to excel.
Bruce was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on December 3, 1933, which might explain why he
was happy to run barefoot on the beach nearly his entire life! In college, he rose to the rank
of No. 1 for his school, Carleton College, in men's tennis. He joined the General Electric
Corporation in Daytona Beach, initially to work on the Apollo Program, and enjoyed a rich
and rewarding career, made better by wonderful colleagues, many of whom became
lifelong friends. One very special friend, Sarah Benson, became his wife in 1992. Together
they shared their lives and love with his children from his marriage to Carol Mullins, Karen
Ohmann, Arizona, Janet Ohmann (Joe Crockett), Oregon, Dale Ohmann (Ann), Virginia, and
Sarah's son, Michael Benson, Florida. The births of granddaughters Nicole, Kelly and Erica
tripled Bruce's blessings. Bruce was predeceased by his sister, Mary Jimenez, Colorado and
survived by his brother, Richard Ohmann, NY. After Bruce retired in 1991, he continued to enjoy working on the house he designed and
built with Sarah. Enjoying their place on Scotland Cay, Abaco Bahamas, and traveling the
country visiting national parks in their RV as well as international travel and numerous
cruises, wereas somethings that many only dream of doing.
One would think there was never time for his true passion: playing Bridge. It brought him
such joy and happiness; he valued the competition, and the camaraderie, and the mental
challenge?. Being a humble man, many might never have known that of 200,000 members
of the American Contract Bridge League (living and dead) Bruce ranked 131s
t all-. time in
master points won. This past year he ranked 229
th in master points won for the year (the
Barry Crane Top 500). Both of these awards include the USA, Canada and Mexico. Bruce
was recognized as one of the top players in Florida having won the top two annual contests
(Grand National Teams and North American Pairs) many times over. One friend said
Bruce was a natural bridge player, like that kid in school who could make straight A's
without studying or going to class - but he loved the game and never quit working at it. He
was also a wonderful partner - genuinely supportive even when you messed up. He also
took time to play with those far below him in skill and accomplishments. Bruce was the
best.
Never a night owl, the advent of the VCR allowed him to never miss a televised
basketball game with his beloved Duke Blue Devils. He would head to bed announcing, "The most amazing thing: Duke is playing at 7 in the morning!" The family will gather privately at a later date to celebrate Bruce's life. To honor his memory, spend time with the people you love or by doing the things that give you joy.