Bruce Alvin Mallernee

Dr. Bruce A. Mallernee, 92, a local longtime Battle Creek dentist, died peacefully at The Oaks at NorthPointe on Tuesday evening, February 2, 2016.

Bruce was born July 9, 1923, in Battle Creek, Michigan, the son of Wynter and Aline (Lindsay) Mallernee. He grew up in Battle Creek and was a 1941 graduate of Battle Creek Academy. He joined the U.S. Army Air Corp and served his country during WWII. After his tour of duty, he enrolled at Western Michigan University, where he received his undergrad degree. He was then accepted to the University of Michigan Dental School program. Bruce received his DDS Degree from the University of Michigan in 1953. Bruce Alvin Mallernee was united in marriage to the former Wanda Lee Southward on February 16, 1946 at the Battle Creek Tabernacle. After graduating, they returned to Battle Creek where he opened his dental practice. He was a well-known Battle Creek Dentist until his retirement in 1989.

Sadly, Bruce was preceded in death by Wanda, his wife of 59 years, on May 8, 2005. Surviving are his special friend, Mildred Jackson; four sons, Gary (Gail) Mallernee of Orlando, FL, Ron (Laurie Paul) Mallernee and Greg Mallernee of Battle Creek, and Rick (Lori) Mallernee of Atlanta, GA; nine grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; a sister Betty Anderson of Battle Creek and a former daughter-in-law, Jane Mallernee of Battle Creek. In addition to his wife, Bruce was also preceded in death by a grandson, Jason Mallernee; two brothers, Dr. Rollin Mallernee, Louie Mallernee; and two sisters, Virginia Luke and Mildred Isaacson.

Bruce was the last surviving charter member of Westlake Presbyterian Church, where he served as a Ruling Elder and was active in numerous activities over the years. He was a longtime member of the Lakeview Kiwanis Club, serving on the board as Secretary of the Club for many years. He chaired the annual Kiwanis Peanut Sale for charity and always rang the bell for the Salvation Army. Bruce served on the Ethics Committee for the Michigan Dental Association for a number of years. He was also an avid card player, including competitive Bridge, and lots of Cribbage with anyone who would sit down with him. Bruce enjoyed camping with his family and working in his yard. Bruce will be remembered by his family and friends as a loving husband, loving father, loving grandfather and one who knew how to make himself feel good by always making others feel better.

Friends will be received 3:00-5:00 p.m. Sunday at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Funeral services will be officiated by Pastor Kate Johnston at the funeral home 1:00 p.m. Monday, February 8, 2016. Committal and entombment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Westlake Presbyterian Church, 415 South 28th St., Battle Creek, MI 49015 or the Lakeview Kiwanis Club, 217 Kensington Circle, Battle Creek, MI 49015. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.