Bruce James Ardia

He enlisted in the United States Army where he proudly served his country from 1968-1974 and earned the roll of Sargent E5.

Bruce attended Paul Smith College in New York from 1962-1964. He met his wife, Elaine Ardia, in Brattleboro, VT, and relocated to Lewiston in 1979 to be closer to Elaine’s family after the birth of their only child, Thomas I. Ardia. They shared 45 wonderful years married before her passing in 2020.

Bruce went back to college and graduated from Windham College in Putney, VT, with his bachelor's degree in psychology in 1973.

He began his working career at Tambrands and was a line worker there for 21 years. Following Tambrands, Bruce was an Ed Tech in special education for the Lewiston school system from 2000-2009.

In his free time, he deeply enjoyed any activities that were outdoors such as hiking, camping, snowshoeing and photographing Maine’s beautiful scenery. Bruce was also an avid reader and a member of the Maine Appalachian Trail Club.

He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. Bruce was proud to have served in the Army in Alaska and hiked every 4000-footer in New England.

In addition to his wife, Bruce is predeceased by his sister, Joan McCormik, and his beloved dog Mack.

He is survived by his son, Thomas Ardia and his wife Lisa, as well as 2 nieces, June Flynn and Judy Colrin, and nephew, Jimmy Johnson.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held in the spring and announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bruce’s name to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy at https://appalachiantrail.org/

Arrangements are in the care of The Fortin & Pinette Group, 305 Alfred A. Parkway, Lewiston. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the funeral home website.