Bruce Sundlun

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Soozie Sundlun and her family, with the recent passing of her husband Bruce Sundlun, our dynamic former governor and friend.    

--Providence Journal, G. Wayne Miller, July 21st

Former Rhode Island Gov. Bruce G. Sundlun, whose heroism in war, success in business, fiery political career and complex private life made him into one of the state's legendary figures, died Thursday at his home in Jamestown. He was 91 years old.

A statement from his family Thursday said:

"Former Governor Bruce Sundlun died peacefully tonight at his home in Jamestown. He was surrounded by his loving family. As a husband, father and grandfather he was our north star. We are deeply grateful for his love and lessons throughout our lives."

Sundlun had been hospitalized recently for an undisclosed ailment.

U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., who was Sundlun's legal counsel and business regulation director during his terms as governor, released the following statement early Thursday:

"I mourn the passing of Bruce Sundlun, a beloved friend and mentor. Bruce's accomplishments as an athlete, soldier, lawyer, businessman and politician would each make his a memorable life; together they made him one of the most remarkable and accomplished Rhode Islanders in our history.

"But most who knew Bruce will remember him for his personality: warm-hearted and funny, impatient and irrepressible, courageous and determined. No one who knew Bruce ever doubted where he stood. He was a towering figure in our state's history and a vibrant figure in the lives of his friends and family. My love, thoughts and prayers are with them."