St. Albans, Vermont — October 21, 2025— The Rotary Club of St. Albans proudly recognized longtime member and community leader Larry Bruce for his more than 50 years of dedicated service to the Rotary Club and the greater St. Albans community.

A Past President and Rotarian of the Year, Bruce has been a cornerstone of the organization and a shining example of Rotary’s core values: Service Above Self, fellowship, integrity, and dedication.

At a recent celebration in his honor, Past President Carrie Johnson paid tribute to Bruce’s enduring commitment.

“It is truly an honor to stand before you today as we gather to celebrate an extraordinary milestone—a remarkable achievement in service and dedication,” Johnson said. “Fifty years—what a remarkable commitment to one organization, to one cause, and to the betterment of others. In a world where consistency can sometimes feel rare, Larry’s dedication has been unwavering.”

Throughout his tenure, Bruce has played a critical role in shaping the Rotary Club’s mission and mentoring new generations of Rotarians. His leadership, compassion, and integrity have earned him the deep respect of his peers and the broader community.

Outside of Rotary, Bruce is a retired lawyer and probate judge, known for approaching his professional responsibilities with fairness, wisdom, and a steadfast commitment to justice—qualities that seamlessly carried into his Rotary work.

An avid outdoorsman, Bruce has long drawn strength and inspiration from nature, a reflection of his resilient spirit and forward-looking mindset. Whether on the trails or in the heart of community service, he remains a guiding force.

“Larry, your 50 years of service are not just a milestone—they are a legacy,” Johnson added. “Your dedication has touched the lives of so many, both within our club and beyond. You’ve set an example for all of us to follow.”

Past Rotarian Ted Tyler shared, “From the moment that I asked Larry to attend the Rotary meeting 53 years ago he’s exemplified what the organization stands for. His numerous contributions over the years have endeared him to the community. The sustainability of the St. Albans Rotary Club and the impact on the community have been truly astounding.”

Tom Hungerford, Past President stated” Larry you have been an inspiration to me in all aspects of life. You are involved in your church, your profession, and our Club. Rarely does an event take place that you are not involved in despite your obligation to work and family. How fitting that we recognize you here at the Greg Brown lodge on a hill you were so actively involved in its operation and preservation.

Your involvement in the Rotary Ski program also speaks volumes for your commitment to “service above self”. Countless Saturdays were spent chaperoning hundreds of youth on our once trademark program.
Your years of involvement in the Boy Scouts resulted in receiving a Distinguished Service Award at the Counsel level. Your conviction to serve youth in the Scouts taught many life lessons and brought joy to those who participated. You have had a positive impact on our community and Rotary is fortunate to have you as a member and ambassador.”

The Rotary Club of St. Albans extends its heartfelt gratitude to Larry Bruce for his lifetime of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of Rotary. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Rotarians.

President-Elect and emcee for the evening, Joe Halko summed up the ceremony, “I can’t think of a Rotarian that embodies the Four-Way Test of the things we think, say, or do as Rotarians more than Larry.  Those guiding principles are: Is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? Will it build GOODWILL & BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?  For over a half century Larry has exemplified Service Above Self in making our community a better place. Thank you, Larry and congratulations.”