Bruce Carter L. Pratt


Bruce Carter L. Pratt, 77, of Littleton, Mass., died on October 7, 2017. He is survived by his children, Hannah Katherine Pratt of Littleton, Alexander Duncan Pratt of Malden, and Ethel Bruce Pratt of Worcester, and his brother Christopher Pratt and his wife Jimmie Cochran Pratt of Asheville, N.C.

Bruce was born on June 23, 1940 in Boston to Muriel Andrews Pratt and Joseph Brenton Pratt. After graduating from Northeastern University with a Bachelor’s in Political Science, Bruce traveled the length and breadth of the United States before returning to the greater Boston area to work. He was a public school teacher, musician, folk dancer, chef, and addictions counselor at McLean Hospital for 35 years.

Bruce was a larger-than-life figure in the folk community, with his wicked puns, strong sense of adventure and an encyclopedic knowledge of literature, geography, and diverse cultures. An avid morris dancer and original member of the Revels cast, he guided generations of performers and was a father figure to many. Known as a colorful storyteller and jokester, and always a steady friend and willing listener, Bruce was ever ready to help at a moment’s notice. Most of all, he deeply loved his three children.

A memorial service will be held November 12, 2017 at 6:30pm at Grace Vision United Methodist Church at 80 Mt. Auburn Street in Watertown.

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14 Condolences

  1. Julie Chamberlin on October 24, 2017 at 3:02 pm

    He was a wonderful man and will be missed by many. Keeping the family in my thoughts. As always, please reach out if there is any help needed.



  2. Mark Wilke on October 24, 2017 at 3:24 pm

    Bruce’s legacy as a strong member, and creative bon vivant of our dance team, the Newtowne Morris Men will be long remembered, and cherished by all that knew him, or only witnessed his always good natured antics in public or his hard work behind the scenes. May he rest now in peace.



  3. Clarice Kjerulff on October 24, 2017 at 3:38 pm

    Morris gatherings will not be the same without Bruce’s satyr presence. I admired Bruce’s courage and honesty as he shared his final journey. A true mensch, Bruce will long be missed. My sincere condolences to his family and all who knew him.



  4. Elaine Leeder on October 24, 2017 at 4:10 pm

    My thoughts are with you all. I would attend the service. But, alas, I live in california. Bruce was a very important part of my life and I miss him already. We had a great visit out here in April and I will fondly remember it. You had a unique abd delightful father.



  5. Kate Wheeler on October 24, 2017 at 4:34 pm

    Grateful for Bruce’s big hearted presence among us as long as he could stay, and for his raising our dear Alex, Ethel, and Hannah. With much love, Kate & Theo



  6. amy prince on October 24, 2017 at 6:03 pm

    My condolances. He will be missed at our Morris gatherings.



  7. Ruth Canonico on October 24, 2017 at 6:24 pm

    Born on my late father’s birthday, but 23 years later, Bruce certainly was a good listener and conversationalist. Once he took me to dinner and later listened attentively as I sang a whole repertoire of ballads accompanied by my dulcimer. Witty, and a larger than life presence, he will be both missed and fondly remembered by many.



  8. Michele Andolina Jr on October 24, 2017 at 8:25 pm

    I met Bruce in 1960. I woke up to find this huge man sleeping in our living room. My sister Lisa and I didn’t know who he was. Mom and Dad were fast asleep, we often got up early for cartoons on the Black and white TV we had, but here was this man on our couch. He was asleep and it seemed natural enough to have him there. So we turned on the set and sat down in front of the couch. Then this big deep voice said “Well Hello!” We sure did have a lot of fun over the years, Bruce. Your Enigmatic VW bus with all its cubbies and running water! Such adventures! I miss you and our phone calls about life. You brought an integrity to my life that transcends familial relationships and brought the universe closer. Thank you for your life.



  9. Melvin & Tina Poindexter on October 25, 2017 at 2:54 pm

    He was a wonderful man and will be missed by many. Keeping the family in our thoughts and prayers. Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about your father’s passing. Memories of your father lives on in our hearts.



  10. David Skidmore on November 1, 2017 at 10:35 pm

    I first met Bruce in the early 70’s – I danced more English then. Ever since, we traveled in parallel, occasionally intersecting folk circles in the Boston area. Whenever we crossed paths it was always “Ho, friend, well met!”, and we’d share bits and pieces of our common and uncommon experiences and reminiscences. I wasn’t entirely of his world and he wasn’t entirely of mine, but it never mattered. He was intensely, but comfortably present, wherever he found himself. I mourn his passing – a joyful noise has left us. To his family – thanks for sharing him with us.



  11. Erika C. Brien on November 3, 2017 at 10:36 pm

    Such fond and clear memories I have of Bruce, from my childhood. Bruce was always a warm, very colorful presence at morris outings and gatherings. He always had time to talk with me. I shall forever remember his voice, smile and beret. I can see him clearly now in my mind’s eye, standing tall over me, being kind and saying something funny. I send my deep condolences to Bruce’s family. Bruce, wherever you are, I know you are having fun.



  12. Mitch Diamond on November 9, 2017 at 9:02 pm

    I Miss you, Bruce. I miss your sense of humor, your bad puns, your endless supply of limericks and your willingness to listen to my bad jokes, even if you had heard them before. Bruce gave so much of himself to our Morris Team, always willing to help out even when he was no longer dancing. His absence will long be noted.



  13. Marge Thibeau on November 11, 2017 at 2:06 am

    Bruce had such a love for people. He could get anyone to open up and talk to him, he was completely engrossed by getting to know everyone. His joy for exploration included travel, books, politics, music, dance, everything he came in contact with. His joy for life, love of his family and friends shone brightly. While he will be sorely missed, my heart goes out to his children and family for their loss..



  14. Sandy Thompson on November 13, 2017 at 4:58 am

    Bruce always seemed larger than life. What an interesting and lively personality. I loved his voice and mischievous smile. I will miss him.



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