Bruce Allen Efron Obituary (1950 - 2012)

Bruce Efron, 61, died after a courageous fight with lung cancer on Friday, July 6, 2012. Born in Minneapolis, MN, he spent most of his life in Overland Park. Bruce is survived by wife Betsy (Laurabeth) of 34 years, son Joshua, daughter and son-in-law Erica and Matt Barnes, parents Jerome and Beatrice Efron, grandchildren Noah and Amelie, brother and sister-in-law Mike and Bari Efron, and numerous adoring nephews and nieces. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am, Monday, July 9th in the chapel at Kehilath Israel Blue Ridge Cemetery at 1901 Blue Ridge Blvd., Independence, Missouri. Burial will follow. Bruce Efron’s name was a household word in Kansas City in the 1990’s and 2000’s. With his BA in Journalism and Broadcast from Kansas University, Bruce became a top-rated DJ bringing warmth and humor to his work. An old time style radio personality, his shows were entertaining, scored with comic productions and creative interviews for over 30 years in St. Joseph, MO, Huntington, WV, Colorado Springs, CO, and Ottawa, KS, topped by 12 years at WDAF in Kansas City as the ‘All Night Trucker’. In addition to his professional success, Bruce was a star in the synagogue choir for decades and frequent ba’al tfilla (service leader) at Kehilath Israel Synagogue, active in community theatre and performance, and generously participated in community activities such as serving as a Big Brother. Even more than his talent, Bruce will be remembered as a role model for kindness and patience. His quick wit and sense of song were indicators of his desire to give others pleasure. He put much energy into maintaining long and close friendships over decades, and liking people just as they are. His smile, acceptance and kindness will be missed. The family thanks Rabbi Herbert Mandl, Cantor Jeffrey Shron and Dan Kass for their guidance and support during this hard time. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Jewish Family Services (5801 W. 115th St, Overland Park, KS 66211) or the American Cancer Society. Shiva services will be held at the Atriums, 7300 W 107 ST OPK 66212 mornings at 8:00am and evenings at 6:55pm. There is no service Friday evening, Saturday morning, or Saturday evening. Look for signs in the lobby. Shiva concludes with the Sunday morning service.