Clyde Joseph Bruff
Clyde Joseph Bruff, born August 7, 1945, in Pittsburgh, PA, passed away on June 8, 2024, in Santa Barbara, CA. A vibrant and larger-than-life personality, Clyde was the cherished son of Judd and Florence Bruff and grew up loving his family, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, Pittsburgh Steelers, and the magic of Hollywood.
Clyde met and married his beloved wife, Anne Marie Bruff (Cheek), at Duquesne University. Their 56 years of marriage were filled with love, laughter, and adventure. While stationed at Warren Air Force Base, they welcomed their two adored children, Judd Collins Bruff II of Oakland, CA, and Julie “Jules” Anne Bruff of Los Angeles, CA. Clyde proudly served as an officer in charge of 5% of land-based nuclear weaponry in the U.S. Air Force and earned his MBA from the University of Wyoming.
The family’s final post was at Vandenberg AFB in California. The Bruffs made Oakland, California, their home. Clyde transitioned from a successful investment broker in San Francisco-where he also became a passionate 49ers fan-to a career in acting. His third and most fulfilling career saw him grace over 30 films and T.V. shows, host a radio talk show, and lend his voice and talent to commercial, print, and voice-over work. Clyde’s true calling was acting, reflecting his larger-than-life, wild-hearted, and warm spirit.
A man of many roles, Clyde was a dedicated coach and referee for his children’s soccer and basketball teams. For over two decades, he brought joy to others as Santa Claus at a Bay Area Veterans Hospital every Christmas and generously volunteered as an election poll worker. His family and friends will remember him for his antics, generous hugs, booming laughter, and deep love of sports and acting.
Clyde’s warmth extended beyond his family to his friends and beloved family dogs, whom he adored with all his heart. His legacy lives on through his family, dear friends, and the countless lives he touched with his love and passion.
Clyde is survived by his wife Anne, children Judd and Julie, and a host of cherished family and friends. His vibrant and loving spirit will be deeply missed but forever remembered.