Bruce Matson

Bruce Matson, known to many by his longtime nickname "Ollie", died on December 25, 2025. He was born on August 16, 1946, and lived a life defined by quiet strength, independence, and a deep connection to the natural world. Bruce was a lifelong resident of Manchester, graduating from Manchester High School in 1964.

From an early age, Bruce was hardworking and self-sufficient. He began his working life as a newspaper carrier for the Hartford Courant, encouraged by the example of his father, Henry, who was employed there for 40 years. He later worked at the Red Sox Dugout Billiard Hall in Manchester, Connecticut, where he was known for his reliability and steady presence. Bruce went on to build a long and respected career as a Class A sheet metal mechanic, working for several firms over the years, including Ward Manufacturing in Manchester. He took pride in his craft, believed in doing work carefully and correctly, and earned the respect of those he worked alongside.

In 1966, Bruce was drafted into the United States military and served during the Vietnam War. He carried this experience with quiet resolve and a strong sense of duty. Though he rarely spoke about his service, it shaped his resilience, self-reliance, and appreciation for a simple, mostly solitary life.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Bruce found his greatest peace in the forests, rivers, lakes, and farmlands of Connecticut. He spent countless hours hunting and fishing local waters, especially treasuring time at his brother's cottage on the Salmon River in Haddam, Connecticut, as well as outings on Long Island Sound with his brothers. He particularly enjoyed archery hunting in the farmlands of eastern Connecticut, where early mornings and quiet observation brought him satisfaction and connection to the land.

He also valued time spent with close friends Gary and Dan, gathering at Dan's cabin in western Connecticut.
Though Bruce preferred solitude, these friendships were meaningful and enduring, marked by shared outdoor time, simple meals, and quiet understanding.

Those who knew Bruce remember a man of few words, a dry sense of humor, and a calm, steady presence. He chose to live a simple life, avoiding our technology absorbed world. Owning no computer, only a simple cell phone and most recently, no television, he gathered information and entertainment through a simple desktop am/ fm radio. Bruce was occasionally characterized as a cranky curmudgeon, though those who knew him best also recognized his warmth, loyalty, and quiet kindness. Conversations were sincere and unpretentious, often shared over a beverage after a long day outdoors. His well-worn hunting and fishing gear told the story of a life lived close to the land.

Bruce was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Ursula Matson. He is survived by his siblings Stephen Matson and his wife Lois Matson of West Hartford, Connecticut; David Matson and his wife Joanne Matson of Niantic, Connecticut; and Mary Matson and companion Monique Burns of Rockport, Massachusetts. He is also survived by five nieces and nephews, Jessica Brand and husband Matt, Erin Matson and husband Tom Keating, Alisha Avarista and husband Dante, Samantha Chapell and husband George, Nick Matson and was especially cherished as "Uncle Brucie" by his grandnieces and grandnephews, who will remember his quiet kindness and steady presence.

A celebration of Bruce's life will be held in the spring of 2026 for family and friends. Details will be shared at a later time. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to spend time outdoors-walk a wooded trail, cast a line into a quiet river or Long Island Sound, or pause in stillness-in remembrance of a life lived simply, honestly, and on his own terms.