Bruce F. Mrha
Johnstown- Bruce F. Mrha, age 90, of Johnstown passed away peacefully on December 3, 2024 at Nathan Littauer Hospital. Bruce was born in Buffalo, NY to the late Rudolph and Marguerite Mrha of Corfu, NY.
In March of 1952, Bruce joined the United States Marine Corps. He served his first tour in Korea, and his final tour was in Scotia, NY, where he met his wife, Jennie.
Bruce and Jennie exchanged vows in June of 1955 and were blessed with four wonderful sons: Mike (Carol), John (Dawn), Jim (Yvonne), and Steve (Erin). He took immense pride in his nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Bruce worked for several local florists before purchasing Kilmer Florist in Johnstown. In 1963, he constructed a new shop called Colonial Flower Shoppe, which he operated for 44 years before retiring in 2006. Throughout his career, Bruce was heavily involved in the Floral Industry. He served on the advisory board of Teleflora and was the Past President of its Capital District branch. Bruce pursued European Design education in Holland, emerging as a Master Designer. In 1984, he garnered one of the Floral Industry’s highest honors by becoming a member of AIFD (American Institute of Floral Design) and AAR (American Academy of Florists). He also served on the Retail Council of the Society of American Florists, representing five states in Washington, DC. His passion for floral design led him to attend numerous conventions across the United States and Europe. Notably, he was selected to design for the World Flower Council in both Mexico and Sapporo, Japan, proudly representing the United States. His love for the Floral Industry and the community of Johnstown was evident in his enthusiasm for Christmas decorations and gardening.
In addition to his professional achievements, Bruce had two siblings; the late David Mrha and surviving brother Paul (Joan) Mrha, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Bruce cherished his family and friends, relishing in gatherings and visits with loved ones. He was affiliated with the Marine Corps League, Toys for Tots, the Knights of Columbus, the Eagles, and the Moose Club. Bruce was a dedicated Eucharistic Minister and served on the Parish Council at Holy Trinity Church.
He was truly blessed with a wonderful network of family, friends, a church family, and loyal employees like Joe and Steve. He enjoyed lasting friendships with Don, Gary, Dick, Ed, Harry, Carolyn, and Frank, who supported the Mrha family from the very beginning. Bruce was grateful to all their wonderful customers who contributed to the success of his business.
Bruce’s family expresses their deepest gratitude to the nurses and doctors at Nathan Littauer Hospital for the exceptional care provided to him during his time there. Special thanks are also extended to nieces Chris and Lisa for their unwavering support.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Friday, December 13, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Home, located at 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville, New York. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Church of the Holy Spirit, located at 153 S. Main Street, Gloversville, NY. Father Francis R. Vivacqua and Father Matthew Wetsel will concelebrate the service. Burial will be held at Mt. Carmel Cemetery at a later date, which will be announced.
In support of the Floral Industry, it is encouraged to send flowers to a loved one or to brighten the day of a sick or lonely adult or child.
