Bruce Hemme

Bruce E. Hemme, age 61 of Erie, passed away Saturday, May 9, 2015 at his residence, in the presence of family and friends.

Bruce was born in California on December 26, 1953, son of Norbert Hemme and the late Shirley M. Hemme.

He graduated from McDowell High School in 1972, and served our country honorably in the U.S. Army.

Bruce began working at the Pufferbelly restaurant as the general manager when it opened in 1984. In 2002, Bruce and his wife Mary Ellen purchased the restaurant.

Bruce was a vital member of the Erie community. He contributed to charitable causes and participated in many Erie public events. Bruce was active, and a board member with the A.N.N.A. Shelter in Erie, and served on the 2015 VisitErie Board of Directors.

He enjoyed riding his motorcycle with friends. One of his greatest memories was being able to travel to Sturgis, South Dakota with many friends. He enjoyed reading, and could be found on most Tuesdays in the book store reading books.

What Bruce loved most in life was his granddaughter, Avery Lynn Hemme, age 4, of Lehigh Acres, Florida.

In addition to his mother Shirley, Bruce was preceded in death by his grandparents, and several aunts and uncles.

Surviving in addition to his wife Mary Ellen, are his father, Norbert Hemme of Millcreek, son Gary Hemme and spouse Tiffany, and granddaughter Avery, of Lehigh Acres, FL; a sister, Pamela Hemme of Erie, and a brother, Kent Hemme of Fairview. Bruce is also survived by three very special friends, Howard Buzzell, his “lifelong best friend”, Jeannie Draves, and Dan Strong.

Bruce will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Friends may call at the Burton Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 602 West 10th Street, on Thursday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the A.N.N.A. Shelter, 1551 East 10th St., Erie PA 16511.