LTC Bruce Carleton, USA, Ret.

Bruce Carleton, 75, an amazing husband, father, grandfather, soldier, and, most importantly, a believer in Christ was called home by Jesus Thursday, July 7, 2022 after courageously battling cancer and dementia.

Bruce was born on September 18, 1946 in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. He attended Arkansas Polytechnic College where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and, following in the footsteps of his father, Bruce joined the military where he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army after faithfully serving 22 years, including combat tours in Vietnam where he earned the Bronze Star Medal. He met his bride in El Paso, TX, early on in his Army career and together they shared several moves and overseas assignments, settling into El Paso for the last 30 years.

Bruce was a dedicated family man and gladly traded in a promotion opportunity so that he could be with his family. He spent countless hours helping around the house, mentoring and shuttling his daughter Missy around to different track and field events, and volunteering at his church in El Paso, TX. Bruce loved playing golf and caddied on the PGA tour, but most of all, he loved spreading the word of God while playing. He was consistently sought after in tournaments after consistently winning base tournaments in Korea and at Fort Bliss, TX and multiple holes-in-one.

Bruce’s memory will live in the hearts of all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert M. Carleton, Colonel, USAF retired, and step-mother Charline B. Carleton, his mother Bernice Carleton and brother, Bert Carleton, Jr. Survived by: his loving and caring wife of 45 years, Lynn H. Carleton. Lovingly remembered by his beautiful daughter and Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, Missy Burton and her husband, Lieutenant Colonel Bennet Burton; grandchild, Carleton Burton; sister, Roy Lynne Mason and her husband, Kelly Mason; brother, Phillip D. Carleton; and many other extended family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Officers Christian Fellowship on his behalf.