Altoona, PA — Former Blair County Judge R. Bruce Brumbaugh, known for his meticulous approach to law and justice, has died at age 92. Brumbaugh passed away on Monday in his Altoona residence, leaving behind a legacy marked by dedication and thoroughness during his decade-long tenure on the Blair County Court of Common Pleas, from 1980 to 1990.
Colleagues and contemporaries spoke highly of Brumbaugh’s judicial demeanor and commitment to the legal system. Senior Judge Jokene Kopriva, who shared the bench with Brumbaugh for two years, commended his high standards and considerate nature. “He was not only committed to his role but also brought a calming, respectful presence to the courtroom,” Kopriva remarked.
D. Brooks Smith, a senior judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit and a former colleague, highlighted Brumbaugh’s attentiveness to both legal intricacies and personal distresses presented before him. Smith fondly remembered seeing Brumbaugh engrossed in his legal research, a testament to his hands-on approach.
“His persona was ideally suited for the judiciary, capable of handling the demands of both trial and appellate courts,” stated Smith, emphasizing Brumbaugh’s soft-spoken yet firm judicial temperament.
William Haberstroh, who interfaced with Brumbaugh while working in the district attorney’s office, labeled him as a “fair judge” who held a profound respect and love for the law. Haberstroh noted, however, that Brumbaugh’s thoroughness sometimes delayed his opinion writings, which might have influenced his career’s trajectory. Despite this, Haberstroh considered him the epitome of judicial prudence.
Brumbaugh’s career faced challenges, including not being retained as a judge, which sparked debate about his judicial style and its fit with the demands of a busy court system. Despite this setback, those familiar with his work consistently defended his integrity and approach.
Following his judicial career, Brumbaugh remained active in various legal and community circles, contributing his knowledge and skills voluntarily and continuing to mentor younger legal minds.
Friends, family, and members of the community will have the opportunity to honor Judge Brumbaugh’s memory. Visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m. and from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Friday at Mauk & Yates Funeral Home Inc., located at 719 N. Fourth Ave. A memorial service will commence immediately after the last visitation period, at 6 p.m., officiated by Pastor David Brumbaugh and Pastor Frederick Hickok. He will be laid to rest at Alto-Reste Park.
R. Bruce Brumbaugh’s death marks the end of an era for the Blair County legal community, his contributions and the debates surrounding his judicial conduct continue to influence discussions about the qualities that define effective legal practitioners. His legacy, characterized by a sincere dedication to the integrity of the judicial system, lives on among those who knew him and learned from his careful, considered approach to the law.