Bruce Peter Gooding

Bruce Peter Gooding, born June 20, 1941, in Methuen, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, in Sebastian, Florida, surrounded by loved ones.

Bruce was the son of Blanche Aumais and Charles Gooding and grew up in Methuen. He attended Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, where he worked as a paperboy to pay his tuition. This early independence and determination became hallmarks of his character throughout his life. After living many years in Haverhill, Massachusetts, Bruce eventually settled in Nashua, New Hampshire. There, he built a vibrant community of friends and established deep roots before making his more recent move to Florida.

Often joking he had more than nine lives, Bruce truly embraced life with an adventurous curiosity and a knack for storytelling that made him unforgettable to everyone who crossed his path. From high-octane boating on the ocean racing “The Captain’s Lady,” to running from German beer hall bouncers during a Grand European Tour in his youth, to a few heart-stopping moments on his Harley-Davidson, as well as a reluctant 250-foot bungee jump won for him by his daughter, Bruce lived boldly and collected countless stories along the way.

Bruce made some of his happiest memories on the water hosting family and friends aboard his beloved Boston Whaler Revenge, “Bridget.” Whether it was ocean outings or cookouts on the Merrimac River, he took great pride in sharing the beauty and freedom of the open water with his children, their friends, and those lucky enough to be along for the ride.

Bruce’s professional journey reflected his entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking. Starting at Wang Laboratories, he soon realized his passion was being his own boss. With the support of his then-wife Claire, he became a trailblazer in the home improvement industry founding “Wholesale Bathrooms,” one of the first wholesale-to-the-public bathroom fixture businesses. What began as a bold idea grew into three stores across Massachusetts and New Hampshire. His building on Canal Street in Nashua, NH, became a hub for his creative business ventures. He launched “The Velvet Rail” billiard hall and later “Consignment World,” a consignment store where Bruce’s motto was: “You need cash? I need stock–let’s talk.” Working alongside his daughter Erica during this era, he formed deep connections to his community.

Bruce was known not only for his business acumen but also for his generosity. Many local residents fondly remember how he supported underprivileged patrons by furnishing their homes at little or no cost and provided delivery with his pick-up truck. He was also the ultimate handyman who could fix just about anything or MacGyver a solution to make it work. His store became more than just a place of commerce; it was a gathering spot for colorful characters from the neighborhood who came for deals but stayed for Bruce’s humor and captivating current hot takes, then maybe a laugh watching some talk-show TV. His love of finding a good deal and a great story were all part of the fun.

Bruce was known for his quick wit and incredible sense of humor. Friends and family were often amazed by his encyclopedic memory for names, dates, and details. Many of his favorite stories involved the misadventures he shared with his in-laws, tales he loved to bring to life with perfect recall, impersonations, comedic timing, and a strong New England accent and charm. Bruce’s yarn-spinning turned these escapades into iconic legends among family and friends.

Bruce lived fully, laughed often, and left behind memories that will continue to be shared for generations.

Bruce is survived by his children, Charles Gooding; Lisa Gooding; Erica Gooding-Simpson; four grandchildren; his brother Vincent Gooding; and Claire Gooding–the mother of Lisa, Bridget, and Erica–as well as many friends and loved ones who will carry forward his stories and spirit. He was predeceased by his parents Blanche Aumais and Charles Gooding and by his daughter Bridget Gooding.

Bruce’s ashes will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Methuen, Massachusetts, where he will join his parents and daughter Bridget.

Those who knew Bruce know that his stories, laughter, and larger-than-life spirit will never be forgotten.

Friends and family are invited to share memories and photos on Bruce’s online memorial page: https://www.forevermissed.com/bruce-peter-gooding/about