DERBY, England – Bruce L. Gaines passed away at Royal Derby Hospital in Derby, England on April 27, 2021 of Non Alcoholic Seato Hepatitis (liver failure) at the age of 66.

He was born on August 3, 1955 to Bernard and Theresa Gaines at Webber Hospital in Biddeford. Bruce was the youngest of five boys and grew up in Saco on Cross Street. He attended Thornton Academy, class of 1973. While at Thornton, Bruce played the drums in the band which would forever lay a course for his life.

During the ’70s and ’80s, Bruce’s professional life led him around the entire globe on countless world tours for many artists. Bruce was a touring drum tech, roadie, stage manager, tour manager and drummer and started out working for acts like The J Geils Band, Oak and Mountain and eventually ended up around the world with artists like Ozzy Osbourne and was even on Pink Floyd’s The Wall Tour. Bruce eventually landed with a British heavy metal band under the name of Saxon for which he became best friends with drummer, Peter Gill and guitarist, Graham Oliver. This led to Bruce being frequently flown back and forth over to England. Bruce was the first drum tech to ever be endorsed by Ludwig Drums and had a handmade mahogany drum kit personally given to him by Bill Ludwig.

While in England, Bruce met the love of his life, the former Patricia Evans. They were married and had two children, Benjamin and Samuel. Bruce later divorced but remained close friends with Patricia. Bruce raised his two boys as a single parent. He eventually was thrilled to have a granddaughter, Erika.

Bruce was predeceased by his parents; and three of his brothers, Dennis, Douglas and David.

He is survived by his two sons, Benjamin and Samuel; his granddaughter, Erika, of England; and his brother, Bernard and his wife Susan of Saco; and many nieces and nephews.

Bruce was cremated in England and his ashes will be buried along side his brother, David “Bimbo”.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, 11 a.m. June 3, at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Deering Park.

Dennett, Craig and Pate Funeral Home, 365 Main St., Saco are entrusted with his services.

For those wishing to make memorial contributions in his memory please consider

Thornton Academy

438 Main St.,

Saco, ME 04072

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