Bruce Emerson Schug

With heavy hearts-but plenty of smiles-we remember and celebrate the life of Bruce Emerson Schug, born December 5, 1955, who passed away on April 8, 2026.

Bruce was reunited with his parents, Carl and Helen Schug, and no doubt wasted no time getting them laughing again. Here on earth, he leaves behind the love of his life, his wife Joyce, with whom he shared 36 incredible years. Their marriage was full of laughter, music, and a kind of love that never took itself too seriously. Bruce adored Joyce in a way that was impossible to miss-whether he was spinning her around the room, breaking into his signature Elvis impression, or just flashing that grin at her from across the room. She was his partner in everything, and his favorite audience.

Bruce's pride and joy (well... tied with Joyce) was his family. He is survived by his children, Misti Long; Chad (Brittany) Schug; Jon Hamm (Tara); Lindsay Meade (Anthony); and David Hamm (Kat), and his beloved grandchildren, Noah, Joshua, Andrew, Addison, Ella, Grant, Gavin, Logann, Scotlyn, Jacob, Camdyn, and Bryson. To them, he wasn't just Grandpa-he was the "baby whisperer," the official silly song creator, and the guy who could turn any ordinary day into something fun. He had a special talent for getting down on the floor, making kids laugh, and maybe teaching them a little mischief along the way.

He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters, Karen Lanotte and Sherry (Barry) Collins; his mother-in-law, Lynn Allen; along with many nieces and nephews who will forever hear his voice in a good joke or a well-timed one-liner.

For over 25 years, Bruce owned and operated The Goodknight Cleaning, a commercial janitorial service, where he built more than a business—he built relationships. Clients became friends, and no job was complete without a laugh, a story, or a bit of Bruce’s unmistakable charm. Bruce had a quick wit and a playful spirit that could brighten any room. He was known for his storytelling, his perfectly timed jokes, and the occasional prank that kept everyone on their toes. Life around Bruce was never dull—he made sure of that. When he wasn’t dancing (a passion from his days as a ballroom dance instructor) or serenading Joyce, Bruce could be found in his garden or out in the garage, always tinkering, building, or fixing something—usually with a joke not far behind. Bruce will be remembered as a loving husband, proud father and grandfather, devoted brother, and a friend who could always make you laugh—even when you didn’t expect it. His life was filled with love, laughter, and just the right amount of mischief.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Porter Township Hall, 12828 McKay St, Sunbury, Ohio 43074, where family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the joy he brought into so many lives. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever making us smile.