Bruce Raymond Gardner, age 66 of Eastport Maryland, passed peacefully amongst his closest family in Annapolis, Maryland on Saturday, February 6, 2021. Bruce was born March 9, 1954 in Barnstable, Mass. and never strayed far from the water.
He was known for his charisma, big heart, sailing prowess, and incredible food. Bruce was also known and loved dearly as family, a restauranteur, a friendly neighbor, a world class sailor, and an incredible chef.
A black and white photo hangs in the basement of Bruce’s home showing him wearing a chef’s hat standing on the steps of Boston’s Fanueil Hall. It reads, “In France, they say if you want to build a truly great restaurant, you find a truly great Chef and build it around him. Wait ‘til you see what we built around Bruce.”
Bruce began his career as a bus boy and eventually worked his way up to head chef, running the entire kitchen of many restaurants, including Lily’s at Fanueil Hall. He opened and managed over a dozen restaurants in Cambridge, Mass. Bruce also opened Blossoms in DC followed by multiple Boston Seafood locations in D.C., St. Louis, and Kansas City.
Bruce left Boston for Maryland where he opened new restaurants, joined AYC, raised his two kids: Matthew and McKenzie. He opened The Station Grill in Washington D.C.’s The Union Station and for over 20 years, The Station Grill served both locals and travelers.
As an avid sailor and fierce competitor, Bruce competed in sailing regattas up and down the Eastern Seaboard, most notably on his boat, L’Outrage. From Sodus Bay, to Block Island, and all the way down to Key West, Bruce was well accomplished.
Bruce made everyone around him feel welcomed and smile. His charisma and big heart were ineffably notorious, his dance moves unforgettable, and his duck dialogue entertaining. Bruce was always willing to lend a hand and to help figure it out, whatever it may be.
Bruce is survived by Lisa, their dog Gigi, and his two kids Matthew and McKenzie. Bruce would be honored for donations to be made in his name to SPCA of Anne Arundel county, Ewe Spirit Fund or Hospice. For more information, the celebration of life, or to donate please visit https://bruce.gardner.cloud