Bruce I. Cartwright

Bruce I. Cartwright, born October 23, 1949, of Dartmouth, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 26, 2025, at St. Luke's Hospital. Born in Fall River, he was the beloved son of the late Earle E. and Dorothy M. (Lawton) Cartwright.

Bruce was the devoted husband of the late Thalia A. (Scott) van Colen Cartwright. Together, they shared 52 loving years, including 39 years of marriage. His dedication to Thalia and their family was unwavering—a true reflection of his kind and loyal spirit.

In addition to earning an associate's degree in business, Bruce was a self-taught, self-made person with a wide array of interests and talents. His career included working in printing, photography, electrical engineering, and caregiving. For the last four years, Bruce was a staff member at Friends Academy in the after school and summer camp programs—roles that perfectly suited his nurturing nature and passion for helping children.

Bruce had a deep love for the outdoors, for all creatures great and small, and approached life with curiosity and joy. He enjoyed sailing, bike riding, kayaking, gardening, playing his guitar, sculpting, woodworking, leather crafting and designing and printing on his 3D printer. These hobbies were more than pastimes—they were expressions of his creativity, independence, and appreciation for life’s pleasures.

Bruce was a proud husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished his family and made them his highest priority. Admired and adored by all who knew him, Bruce had a gentle strength, a generous heart, and an inspiring dedication to others. His warm presence and steady guidance will be deeply missed.

Bruce is survived by his loving stepsons: Jacob Philip van Colen of Dartmouth, Peter van Colen and his wife Dr. Stephanie van Colen of Dartmouth, and Kenneth van Colen and his partner Paula Walsh Kuphal of Dartmouth. He is also survived by his cherished grandson, Andon van Colen of Dartmouth; his brother, Gary Cartwright and his wife Simone of Valrico, FL; one niece, two nephews, and many great-nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the New Bedford Yacht Club at 11:00 am. Family and friends are welcome to share words of remembrance after the eulogy.

In-lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bruce’s name to: Dartmouth National Resources Trust at www.DNRT.org