Bruce James Archibald, 80, of Oneonta, passed away Sept. 15, 2026.
Born Dec. 30, 1945 in Delhi, the son of Robert J. and Freda (Jones) Archibald, Bruce resided in Treadwell for 77 years until moving to Oneonta three years ago. Life was simple and kind and Bruce was a humble man.
Bruce was a graduate of A.L. Kellogg school where he was active in sports, band, and in 1964 was the Prom King. He worked on the family farm from a very young age through his school years. After high school, he enlisted into the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. He served on the aircraft carrier USS Range and Constellation as a Class A aviation electronics technician. His squadron received awards for completion of special combat operations. Additionally, while serving in the USN, he traveled to Japan, Hawaii, Philippines and across the U.S.
Following discharge, he returned to Treadwell and worked for the town of Franklin where he eventually retired after 50 plus years. Bruce was a member of the Treadwell Fire Department and the Emergency Department for a period of over 60 years. He was a founding member of the Treadwell Emergency Squad. He also served as the Cable Man for the village of Treadwell until digital TV became a “thing.” He proudly served his lifelong community. When he was not working or volunteering, Bruce could be found with his coin collections and studying lottery numbers.
In 1975 Bruce married Sally Day McCracken who survives. Bruce is also survived by his twin brother Fred Archibald and his wife Diane; brother- and sister-in-laws, David Day, William Day (Carolyn), Richard Day (Sandra) and Dan Day (Doreen). Also surviving are his daughters Patricia McCracken Little (Mark), and Sarah Archibald MacNeill (Chris); grandchildren Seth Little (Mackenzie), Levi Little, Jeremy MacNeill and Jack MacNeill; great-grandchildren Mason, Colton, and Harper Little; and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, his in-laws John and Eleanor Day; and brother-in-law George Day.
Bruce’s family will be forever grateful to his caregivers Donna Cole and Shelley Finne, his “girlfriends,” and the staff at Fox Hospital especially the Emergency Department, security, and second floor medical unit.
A casual celebration of life will be held Saturday, Sept. 26 at 2 p.m. at the Peaceful Flats Community Clubhouse. All are welcome.
Donations can be made to The DA Varsity Football Booster Club, c/o Hope Knapp, 955 Holmes Hollow Road, Delancey, NY 13752 and/or The Treadwell Fire/EMS departments, 3001 Case Hill Road, Treadwell, NY 13846.
Arrangements are by Grummons-Bookhout-Bennett Funerals & Cremations, 14 Grand Street, Oneonta.
Visit www.grummonsfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence or memory for the family.
