On Sunday May 2nd, Bruce Francis Cronk (73) of Watertown, New York left this world, and all who knew and loved him. Humble, loving, and strong he walked through this life with his soulmate and wife JoAnn by his side, setting an example to all, how to be a better man, husband, father, brother and friend. When called to serve his country, he answered with nothing short of heroism, earning three Bronze Stars for valor, two Purple Hearts and an Air Medal for 100 drops into landing zones under fire during the Vietnam War. When he returned home, he sought peace in the Florida Everglades where he spent countless nights with his Camp 23 and Camp 2 families, laughing, playing and living life to the fullest. He loved to fish, hunt and go to the range, and could never resist the draw of the smoke and roar of the racetrack, but above all he adored his family. There will never be another Bruce Cronk to grace this earth, but those who had the honor to have met him know that he lives on in every single piece of fatherly advice, helpful guidance and hard-earned praise that he ever bestowed. Although he is gone from this world, we all carry a piece of him with us as we try our best to live up to a man that shaped everyone he ever met. We love you, Bruce. Swamp Fox, signing off. Bruce is survived by his wife of 52 years, JoAnn; His children: Jennifer (Jeni) & Jerry Edwards, Jessica (Jesi) & Clay Pippin; Brother: Jeffrey & Robin Cronk; Sisters: Candace & Paul Patounis, Shelly & Mike Diaz, Diane Machleid; Grandchildren: Taylor, Sommer, Cole & Trace Edwards; And many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents: Elizabeth (Betty) & Gerald (Jerry) Cronk; brothers: David & Rick Machleid. Out of concern for the safety of family and friends, services at Florida National Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested donations to either The Wounded Warrior Foundation or The Everglades Foundation.