Bruce Welden, affectionately known to many as “Apple Juice,” passed away after a long and hard-fought battle with heart disease — a battle he seemed determined to win time and time again. In true Bruce fashion, he cheated death more than once, surviving multiple cardiac events over the years before finally finding peace.

Born into a proud Navy family on May 22, 1954, Bruce spent his childhood moving from Sanford, Florida, to Bethesda, Maryland, Newport, Rhode Island, Parris Island, South Carolina, and even Taipei, Taiwan, before the family ultimately settled in Beaufort, South Carolina, where he graduated from Beaufort High School in 1972.

Bruce was the only son sandwiched between big sister BJ and little sister Karen. He lived life with the spirit of a man twice his size and ten times his luck. To many who knew him, he was proof that cats really do have nine lives.

Bruce’s greatest passion was the water. A gifted captain and accomplished fisherman, he spent years running boats and competing in sport fishing tournaments from the South Carolina coast to Florida and throughout the Caribbean. He earned the respect and friendship of countless captains and members of the fishing community, where his skill, humor, and easy camaraderie made him well known and well loved.

In addition to his years on the water, Bruce pursued photography professionally, attending photography school in Atlanta and later operating a photography studio in Beaufort. He also worked for many years in advertising on Hilton Head Island.

When heart disease eventually forced him into early retirement, Bruce remained in his hometown of Beaufort, South Carolina, where he continued to enjoy the coastal life he loved so much.

Bruce was also active in the Beaufort community for many years, volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival and supporting numerous local organizations. He was a proud member of the South Carolina Sons of the American Revolution.

Bruce is survived by his sisters; BJ Welden Simpson (William Lee (“Bill”) Simpson, Jr) and Karen Welden Simmons; Nieces, Heather Jean Simpson and Alexandra Welden Crim; Nephews, William Lee Simpson III and Eugene Braxton Crim, Jr (Alyssa Meghan Crim) and Great-nephew, Connor Braxton Crim.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert B. Welden; his mother, Jeanne B. Welden; and his brother-in-law, David B. Simmons.

Bruce also carried one very special nickname throughout his life. When Alexandra was little, she couldn’t quite say “Uncle Bruce,” and instead lovingly called him “Apple Juice” — a name that stuck in the hearts of those who loved him most.

Like the boats he loved so dearly, Bruce left a wake behind him that touched countless lives.

In addition to his family, Bruce leaves behind an enormous circle of friends stretching up and down the coast and around the world — friendships built through boating, fishing, laughter, storytelling, and a life well lived.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held later this summer. Family and friends will be notified once the date is determined. We look forward to gathering together to celebrate Bruce’s wonderful life, share stories, laughter, and remember the man so many loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association in Bruce’s honor.

Copeland Funeral Service is assisting the Welden family with arrangements.