Obituary of R. Bruce Tappan

R. Bruce Tappan, 81, of Watkins Glen, passed away on Wednesday, April 25, 2018 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center. He was born in Harrisburg, PA on July 6, 1936, the son of the late Theron and Marie (Porter) Tappan. Bruce was a telephone repairman with Empire Telephone for many years. He also tended bar at the Elks Lodge in Watkins Glen and at Ken & Barb's. He was a lifelong Episcopalian and served as an altar server when he was young. Bruce was a devoted father who instilled great character in his children. He was proud of them and all of their accomplishments, yet humble and conservative with his own accomplishments. He fulfilled his promise to his wife upon her passing to always provide and take care of their children. Bruce was a member of the Elks Lodge 1546 in Watkins Glen, a conservative republican, and he loved trains. Bruce was a friend to many in the community and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his children, Bruce James (BJ) and Jennifer Tappan of Watkins Glen, Christopher (Ashley) Tappan of Horseheads, Bonnie (Rob) Wagner of Waterloo, Pat Tappan of Waverly, Mark (Lori) Tappan of Lehighton, PA, Tim Tappan of Jim Thorpe, PA, and Jeff (Linda) Cheresnowsky of Waverly; brother, Kent Tappan of Waverly; grandchildren, Bryce, Lelend, Soleil, Xanthe, and several other grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Barbara Tappan, son, Andy Tappan, and granddaughter, Sarah Tappan. Bruce's family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Franck Tirgari for the care he gave to him throughout his illness. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 3, 2018 at 11:00 am at St. James Episcopal Church, 112 Sixth St., Watkins Glen. A luncheon will be held at the Elks Lodge, 300 N. Madison Ave., Watkins Glen following the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Disabled Veterans, 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring, KY 41076 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.