Bruce T. Melnick

Bruce Melnick, 66, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, after an eight-year battle with multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer. Throughout his journey, Bruce faced every challenge with remarkable strength, determination, and positivity. Despite countless treatments, setbacks, and difficult days, he remained hopeful and continued to inspire those around him with his resilience, courage, and unwavering love for his family.

Bruce was predeceased by his father, Theodore Melnick. He is survived by his beloved wife, Terry Melnick; his mother, Olga Melnick; his daughters, Kristen Croce and her husband, Arturo Croce, and Tara Tarabokija and her husband, DJ Tarabokija; his brother, David Melnick, and sister-in-law, Kim Melnick; his six cherished grandchildren, Cecilia, Emiliana, Hudson, Adalynn, Mariella, and Valentina; as well as his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephew, extended family, and many dear friends.

Bruce was a hardworking man who spent more than 40 years as a supervisor at Passaic Valley Water Commission and also bartended for 18 years every weekend at A’s Rock N Sports Bar in Bergenfield. He took tremendous pride in his home and property, loved keeping his cars and motorcycle immaculate, and could fix just about anything. If a project needed to be done, Bruce had both the tools and the knowledge to tackle it. He was always willing to help family, friends, and neighbors, whether it meant making repairs, offering guidance, or shoveling snow during the winter months.

Bruce had a special love for dogs. At one point, when his daughters were still living at home, they had seven dogs at once! He would always say no to getting another dog—at first—but somehow ended up saying yes every time. And despite all the protests, guess who the dogs loved the most? Bruce!

Bruce loved spending time at the Jersey Shore, particularly in Wildwood Crest at the Tartini family shore house. He also enjoyed exploring thrift stores in Cape May and built a unique knife collection over the years. Everything he owned reflected the care, pride, and attention to detail that defined his character.

Above all else, Bruce loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend whose strength, generosity, humor, and kindness touched countless lives.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him. His family takes comfort in knowing he is finally at peace and free from the pain he endured so courageously.

In accordance with Bruce’s wishes, no formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Bruce’s memory to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation in honor of his courageous eight-year battle with multiple myeloma and in support of future advancements in treatment and research. Donations may be made by visiting the MMRF donation page.

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