FARMINGTON – Bruce Edward Coolidge, 45, of East Dixfield, died Aug. 20 at Franklin Memorial Hospital after a courageous nine-month battle with cancer. He passed on with his loving companion, Terry Clifford, and his dear friend, Judy Melvin, by his side.

He was born, July 28, 1962, in Farmington, the son of Ellen (Dyke) and Gordon Coolidge. He was raised and lived in East Dixfield most of his life, attending Dixfield schools. He went on the receive his GED and took a welding course.

He enjoyed NASCAR racing, carpentry, motorcycles, snowmobiling, four-wheeling, fishing, hunting, traveling, country music, dancing and spending time with his friends. He also loved animals, especially his dog, Buddy. He owned his own business, building homes while living in Louisburg, N.C., for the past three years. He recently returned home to be with his family.

He is survived by his companion, Terry Clifford of Farmington; his mother, Ellen Coolidge and her companion, Russell McLellan of Jay; his sister, Terri Mitchell and her husband, Norman, of East Dixfield; his brother, David Coolidge and his companion, Noreen, of East Dixfield; his sister, Brenda Belanger of Jay; his brother, Rusty McLellan of Seattle, Wash.; stepchildren, Walter Begin, Jeremiah Begin, Crystal Rose, Ric Mitchell, Jeff Thompson, Amanda Marchetti and Josh Marchetti; eight nieces and nephews; seven step-grandchildren; his best friend, Jeff French; special brother-in-law, Bill Belanger; and many friends, cousins, aunts and uncles.

He was predeceased by a sister, Susan; his father, Gordon Coolidge; and a nephew, Richard Perry.

Bruce was always fondly called, “Zip” by his brother, David. He will be forever loved and missed.