During my internship at Starbucks in 2023, I had the pleasure of meeting Bruce while participating in a community service event at a local park. I immediately connected with both Bruce and Lauri. We had such engaging conversations, especially about his travels. I was struck by how eloquent, thoughtful, and wise he was. He shared so many insights that left a lasting impression on me.

We had planned to go kayaking together, but unfortunately, life and conflicting schedules got in the way. After returning to university and later moving back to Seattle, I found myself looking for the card Bruce had given me with his email address. While searching for him online, I was heartbroken to learn of his passing.

Bruce was truly remarkable. I was 21 years old at the time, and I learned so much from our time together. We talked for hours, and I remember how energized and inspired I felt afterward.

The last message he sent me read:

“Looking forward to seeing you again, for another adventure and good conversation.

Bruce.”

Though we never got the chance to go on that adventure or continue our conversation, I’m so grateful for the time we did share. I’ll always remember it and him fondly.

I have many fond memories of times with Bruce, Lauri, and family, but I wanted to focus on one time when it was only Bruce and me.

In February 2023, Bruce and I went to have dinner at Azuki, an udon noodle restaurant in Madison Park. Lauri was unable to join us, as she was out of town, so it was just the two of us. Work had been hectic and much more demanding than normal at the time due to my boss being sick, so, to say that I was looking forward to this meal was a bit of an understatement.

Having a dinner with Bruce always provides stimulating conversation. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine had hit the one-year mark, so that was on our minds. In fact, Bruce even gave a flat cap to me. But, aside from that, the conversation was more familial than anything. I had told him how exhausted I was from all the work I had been doing and he reminded me that it wasn’t anything I couldn’t handle. He was always so great at being encouraging.

To me, however, the big thing about meals with Bruce was that we would always have these arguments about who would pay. Of course, these weren’t real conflicts, but we were always 100% insistent about each of us paying for the other. It was kind of a running joke between us, though.

At Azuki that night, we were debating at the register for quite a few minutes, each of us making his case for why the other should be treated to the delicious dinner. Who paid? It doesn’t really matter. Both of us went home that winter’s night with full, warm bellies and happy, content hearts.

I miss you and love you. 

Bruce was very special friend to me, I had two experiences with Bruce that I will always hold close to my heart.

1st - I first met Bruce at an ARCS membership gathering at Lauri & Bruce’s house.

When I saw Bruce in under the persimmon tree I introduced myself and joined him under the tree to get to know each other.

We had so much in common in our lives which created a deep connection. It was so fun I totally forgot that I was supposed to be with my ARCS group.

2nd - Bruce and Lauri volunteered to be part of the crew with a sheep gather and sorting on Decatur Island,  we all enjoyed our work with the crew.  

 Both Bruce & I are early risers, each morning Bruce was out on the deck with his coffee watching the sunrise, calm waters, eagle and San Juan Islands beautiful nature. I could tell he loved being there as much as Bob & I do.

It is hard to embrace the reality his journey on earth was over and he is now living his next journey. I get many thoughts during the day I would like to talk to Bruce about, I will certainly ask him in my next journey! 

Few men of my acquaintance sit as large in my mind as Bruce Bailey.

Bruce was singular in every way: he was infinitely patient, kind and emotionally generous. He never failed to stand and approach with a hug when I appeared unannounced in their garden. He treated everyone with equal respect.

He was firm in his position but changed his mind readily when shown contrary evidence. Lauri told me during the Black Lives Matter protest he had made a sign “All Lives Matter.” As they approached Madison to join the march, he quickly became aware that his sign could easily be misconstrued. He ditched the sign, so I hear.

He prepared for and returned from his trips abroad with USAID thrilled at the challenge of bringing better agricultural practices to other peoples as well as the thrill of becoming part of different communities. Bruce supported agricultural development: small farmers and women held agricultural enterprises. His stories of working with native women to produce goods for the world market were inspiring; he took great pleasure in helping both men and women develop their local economies.

There was no better person to prune the much-loved persimmon trees in their front yard; there was no better person to climb up into the trees of foreign farmers and teach them his art. He was the BEST pruner I have ever seen; he made what might be seen as a simple practice a true art.

Although I have only known Lauri and Bruce for 18 years, I have watched as they built strong, inclusive communities in both Seattle houses. Together they created two stunning gardens where once there were weeds and, in the case of their new house, bare dirt. The garden gate was often open to welcome neighbors into the beauty. Vegetables were often available for the taking – Bruce and Lauri planted more potatoes than could be eaten by all of Seattle in a season. They were magnificent gardeners, working hard and year-round to bring beauty to their spaces. I wish I had seen their place in Woodland, CA.

Just as important, they shared their work with their neighbors – few people are able to build such strong relationships in such a short time.

He was an excellent husband to Lauri, a woman who brooks no nonsense. Often, I saw him wink at me as he ‘poked’ her, knowing she would respond without fail. He enjoyed it as much as she did. I certainly did.

He will be sorely missed and talked about for a long, long time. RIP good man!

Our sincere condolences for the loss of your husband, father, grandfather and friend.   I did not know Bruce but in reading his obituary and tributes from so many he was such a treasure!  His mother was my kindergarten teacher at Dingle school and she made a positive, lasting impression on me.  Their family was also our across the street neighbor on Third Street and they would sometimes bring out their horse and buggy and give us rides.   What a thrill!  My parents greatly respected the Bailey family and our community will continue to memorialize their kindness and contributions.

Thank you, 

Dolores Ludovina Drummond

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Bruce. His passion for apple farming and his commitment to development through private sector engagement have left a lasting mark on all of us. Bruce motivated our entire team in Tanzania, pushing us to reach new heights and inspiring us to strive for excellence. His legacy will live on in the work we do every day. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

tamu tamu tanzania Ltd. Team shared by David Runge, Commercial Director & Partner

Insta: tamutamutanzania | tamu tamu tanzania | Ifunda, Iringa, Tanzania

E: david.runge@tamutamutanzania.… W: www.tamutamutanzania.com 

Cultivating Sustainable Growth: Bruce Bailey's Impact on BT Innovations in Kyrgyzstan

In June 2019, Bruce Bailey, an F2F volunteer expert with a deep understanding of agricultural business models and orchard management, embarked on a transformative mission with BT Innovations in Kyrgyzstan. The goal was clear: to enhance orchard production practices and establish a robust orchard business model. BT Innovations, seeking sustainable and efficient methods for orchard planting, found in Bruce a guide with the technical acumen and strategic vision needed for long-term success.

Bruce's mission centered on empowering BT Innovations and its potential clients to make informed decisions about critical aspects of orchard management, from selecting seedlings to installing irrigation systems and implementing effective orchard protection measures. His approach was meticulous and multifaceted, designed to ensure that the orchards would thrive well into the future.

Bruce's technical recommendations emphasized several key elements for success. He stressed the importance of choosing high-quality seedlings and equipment, coupled with the value of ongoing training and maintenance support. His guidance included thorough market research before planting and careful soil preparation to promote optimal root growth. Bruce also advised against single sourcing, urging the team to rigorously evaluate suppliers and avoid products ill-suited for local conditions.

The impact of Bruce's expertise has been substantial. His recommendations have empowered the BT Innovations team to manage risks effectively, optimize resources, and ensure the longevity of their orchards. By implementing sustainable practices and focusing on continuous improvement, the team is now well-equipped to navigate the complexities of orchard management and contribute to the sustainable growth of Kyrgyzstan’s agricultural sector.

Bruce Bailey's mission with BT Innovations is a shining example of how targeted expertise and strategic guidance can transform agricultural practices. His work not only set the stage for a thriving orchard business model but also provided a blueprint for sustainable growth in the region. As BT Innovations moves forward, the lessons and strategies imparted by Bruce will continue to inspire and guide their efforts, ensuring a prosperous future for Kyrgyzstan’s agriculture.

The Farmer to Farmer Kyrgyzstan Team

Transforming Agricultural Sustainability: Bruce Bailey's Impact on ABCC in Kyrgyzstan

In the heart of Central Asia, the Agribusiness Competitiveness Center (ABCC) in Kyrgyzstan has stood as a beacon for agricultural development since its establishment in 1994. The center, built on the foundation of donor support, primarily from the World Bank, has long played a pivotal role in providing essential services to the agricultural sector. However, its heavy reliance on external funding raised pressing concerns about its long-term sustainability.

Enter Bruce Bailey, an experienced volunteer in strategic planning, whose mission in September 2014 marked a turning point for the ABCC. Recognizing the urgent need for the center to reduce its dependency on donor funding, Bruce embarked on a comprehensive mission to strengthen the organization's internal capacity and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Bruce's approach was both strategic and hands-on. He led a series of targeted trainings aimed at equipping the ABCC team with the skills needed to navigate the challenges ahead. These sessions covered critical areas such as proposal development, brainstorming future initiatives, and engaging potential partners in proactive and collaborative ways. Bruce's guidance was not merely instructional but transformative, enabling the team to refine their strategies and enhance their approach to new opportunities.

The impact of Bruce's work has been profound. The ABCC team, now armed with new skills in strategic planning and partnership development, feels more confident and prepared to take on future projects. The shift from a donor-dependent model to a more self-sustaining organization is underway, promising a brighter, more stable future for the ABCC.

Bruce Bailey's mission is a testament to the power of strategic planning and capacity building. Through his efforts, the ABCC is not only on a promising path toward sustainability but also stands as a model for other organizations facing similar challenges. As the ABCC continues its journey, it carries with it the lessons and strategies imparted by Bruce, ensuring that its mission to support agricultural development in Kyrgyzstan remains strong and resilient for years to come.

In Memory of Bruce Bailey: The “Amerijik” Who Cultivated Friendship in Tajikistan

We bid farewell to Bruce Bailey, an extraordinary man whose heart was always open to the people and land he cherished so deeply. As a volunteer with the Farmer-to-Farmer program, Bruce visited Tajikistan a dozen times, bringing knowledge, experience, and energy to support local farmers. He became a true friend and mentor to those dedicated to cultivating their orchards. Thanks to Bruce, thousands of trees now bear fruit, and countless farming families have gained confidence and new opportunities.

Bruce stood at the forefront of intensive horticulture in Tajikistan, introducing 36 new varieties of fruit trees from California, planting over 50 orchards, and helping to establish 12 demonstration plots in Khatlon. His work was not only one of physical labor but also a testament to his resilience and devotion. Through scorching summers and freezing winters, Bruce stood by the farmers, teaching them pruning, grafting, irrigation, and pest control. He proudly called himself “Amerijik”—half American, half Tajik—and became a true friend to everyone he met.

Humble, hardworking, diplomatic, and friendly, Bruce inspired optimism and instilled hope for the future in those around him. His commitment to Tajikistan was not just a job but a mission. He cared deeply for each farmer and each tree, celebrating the rich harvests and mourning losses caused by frost, all while encouraging others to press on.

Bruce left behind more than the fruits of his labor—he left a legacy that will continue to grow. He often said he wished to be buried under a tree that bears fruit, so he could remain close to the people he served even after his passing.

As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “When a person dies, their deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for them.” Bruce fulfilled all of these in his life. The orchards he planted will continue to provide shade and fruit; the knowledge he shared will live on in future generations; and his family and friends will remember him as a kind and generous soul who gave so much to the world.

May Bruce find peace, and may his soul be illuminated by the countless acts of goodness he left behind on this earth.

The Farmer to Farmer Tajikistan Team