Bruce Harold Bradford

Dr. Bruce Harold Bradford, 70, loving father and resident of Aiken, South Carolina passed away on Wednesday, June 4, 2014.

Dr. Bradford, the son of the late Harold Everett Bradford and Elizabeth Louise Esry, was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. He married Gretchen Marie Garthoff in 1971, and they enjoyed 34 years of happy marriage. After obtaining his doctorate at Colorado State University in Civil Engineering, Dr. Bradford taught as an associate professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology and started his own consulting company, Water Management Sciences, where he worked from the basement of his home. In 1984, Dr. Bradford and his family moved to Aiken, SC, where he served numerous environmental engineering roles in support of intense, cutting-edge nuclear projects. He is recognized by his colleagues for his knowledge, persistence, and ability to communicate complex technical and analytical concepts to his coworkers and clients. After his retirement, Dr. Bradford enjoyed watching sports but mostly spending time with his children and seven grandchildren.

Dr. Bradford's family and friends will miss him dearly. He was a gentleman, a devoted husband and father, a kind friend, a dedicated employee, and an admirable example. His children remember his quiet, loving, and constant presence; his commitment to his children's education, arts and sports; and the grace he displayed in all situations. Dr. Bradford's children know that their dad was one of the great ones, and they strive to live their lives with the dignity, contentment and pride that he inspired.

Survivors include his sister, Debbie Blair; his daughters, Meghan Christine Bartholomew (David) of Marvin NC, and Karen Elizabeth Crossan (Vincent) of Oviedo FL; and son, Scott Everett Bradford (Elena) of Aiken SC. Dr. Bradford is also survived by his grandchildren, Conall Crossan (11), Sam Bartholomew (10), Malachy Crossan (9), Adam Bartholomew (8), Elizabeth Bartholomew (6), Livia Bradford (2), and Everett Bradford (10 months). Dr. Bradford was predeceased by a sister, Gail Adamson, and a brother, Glenn Bradford.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, June 8, 2014 in the Historic George Funeral Home, 211 Park Avenue at 2 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, the Bradford family would appreciate donations to the Aiken Area Council on Aging. Expressions of sympathy for the Bradford family may be left online at georgefuneralhomes.com.