Bruce Lynn Bolasny

Bruce Lynn Bolasny, M.D., age 86, of St. Petersburg, Florida and formerly of Dover and Lewes, Delaware, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 16, 2026. He was born on August 19, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois to Benjamin and Edythe Bolasny. He lived a full life shaped by family, healing, humor, love of sports, arts, reading, friends and a deep commitment to the community.

Bruce graduated from the University of Florida and the University of Chicago School of Medicine. He then completed his residency at Vanderbilt University. He proudly served as an Army surgeon in Vietnam, and later, during difficult moments in the operating room, he would joke that at least no one was shooting at them.

A distinguished general, thoracic, and vascular surgeon, Bruce served the Dover community at Kent General Hospital for 35 years. He was known for his skill, compassion, and commitment to his patients. In Dover, it was a regular occurrence to meet someone who would say Bruce had operated on him/her or a relative, then speak with real gratitude about what a wonderful doctor.

Outside the operating room, Bruce found joy in boating, fishing, sports, music, and woodworking, making beautiful pieces for family and friends. He loved sports cars and was a lifelong Corvette aficionado. He had an extensive music collection and loved going to football, hockey, and baseball games in person.

Bruce was also a devoted supporter of Congregation Beth Shalom, where his presence and generosity were felt for decades. He had a wide circle of friends, loved to travel, and spent years trying to get a word in between his wife and three daughters. He was thrilled when Lee and Ben joined the family and finally gave him some male company.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Sharon Bolasny; his daughters, Elise Freedman and her husband, Lee Freedman, Jana Bolasny, and Deanne Watts and her husband, Ben Watts; and two granddaughters, Jordyn Freedman and Gabrielle Watts, who brought him immeasurable joy.

He will be remembered for his intelligence, steady kindness, devotion to others, sharp wit, and the deep love he carried for his family every day of his life. He will be missed deeply by many, especially by our family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Empath hospice at Donate - Empath Hospice.