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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Bruce C. Pabian

Bruce Charles Pabian, age 47, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy defined by enthusiasm and kindness.

Bruce graduated from Immaculate Heart of Mary School in 1992 and Salesianum School in 1996. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delaware in 2000 and then his Master’s degree from the University of Delaware in 2004. He was a professor of psychology at the Delaware Technical Community College until 2012. He dedicated his professional life to education as a beloved college professor, where his passion was truly evident in his devotion to his students.

When he wasn’t in the classroom, he was happiest either on the ice or in the rink, being a devoted fan and player of hockey, avid Phillies and Eagles fan. Bruce was a member of the Flyers Alumni Hockey and Wilmington Wheels Hockey.

When the weather warmed, he found joy and peace wandering the fairways, forever chasing the perfect throw on the disc golf course. Above all, he was known for the deep and immediate bond he shared with his four-legged friends, embodying the loyalty and unconditional love of the dogs he treasured so highly.

He is survived by his daughters; Bella Pabian and Seraphina Pabian of Bear, DE., his parents  Edward C. and Carolyn Pabian of Wilmington, DE., his brother, Edward N. Pabian (Kim), his sisters; Lorraine Hadjipanayis (Costas) and Lynn Marie Steinbrunner (Joel), and his nieces and nephews; Panikos Hadjipanayis, Athena Hadjipanayis, Elias Hadjipanayis, Kiley Pabian, Genevieve Steinbrunner and Sawyer Steinbrunner.

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 4701 Weldin Road, Wilmington, DE 19803. A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 pm. Interment will follow at the Holy Cross Cemetery, 626 Baily Road, Yeadon, PA 19050.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faithful Friends Animal Society, 165 Airport Road, New Castle, DE 19720, or to the Delaware Humane Association, 701 A Street, Wilmington, DE 19801 or to any local animal shelter.

Funeral Services

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 4701 Weldin Road, Wilmington, DE 19803. A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 pm. Interment will follow at the Holy Cross Cemetery, 626 Baily Road, Yeadon, PA 19050.

Condolences

    Kristin Segner lit a candle and writes,
    Lynn and Family, I am so sorry for this tragic loss. I remember meeting Bruce a few times and he was always so sweet. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May he finally rest in peace 🙏. Sending my love.
    10/23/2025 10:35 am
    Debbie Cook writes,
    Lynn and family, I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your brother. ❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻
    10/23/2025 10:55 am
    Angela Hadjipanayis lit a candle and writes,
    To Pabian Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Bruce was a kind, funny, and intelligent individual. My heart goes out to all of you during this difficult time. Sending all my love. Angela
    10/23/2025 11:10 am
    Robert Seward writes,
    I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you can find peace and comfort in all the good memories you shared over the years
    10/23/2025 12:25 pm
    Jennifer Kurz lit a candle and writes,
    I am so very sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in each other, in the happy memories your share and in knowledge that you will be reunited one day.
    10/23/2025 01:06 pm
    Kevin Hockmuth lit a candle and writes,
    To the Pabian Family, Please accept my deepest condolences. Bruce was a dear brother of mine and we shared so many great times together it is hard to imagine that he is gone. He was a friend in the truest sense and he was always there for me in a pinch, helping me out when I was in a pinch as he did for so many others. Thank you Mr and Mrs. Pabian for always being so kind and welcoming to me in your home even if we were up to all kinds of mischief at all hours of the night. I am so sorry that I will not be able to attend the services but since I am living in Japan and it is the middle of the semester it is simply not possible to make it. I would very much love to be there to share, celebrate, remember, and mourn my dearest friend, Bruce. I hope we can catch up in person the next time I am able to make it Wilmington. With deepest sympathy and sorrow for your loss, Kevin
    10/23/2025 04:40 pm
    Gina Clarke lit a candle and writes,
    Our deepest sympathies 🙏🏻 Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
    10/25/2025 07:06 am
    The Lawsons writes,
    Thinking of his girls. Deepest condolences.
    10/25/2025 10:27 am
    Phil Petruccelli lit a candle and writes,
    I am saddened to hear this news. I coached Bruce when he played for the Wilmington Wheels ice hockey program. He was a fierce competitor, a hard worker and a great kid. I know he will be missed by family, and friends.
    10/25/2025 09:20 pm
    Barbara Carr lit a candle and writes,
    My deepest condolences and prayers for all of you! A heartbreaking loss
    11/01/2025 08:00 pm
    Matt Bukowski writes,
    Bruce was a great friend and teammate growing up. He was always positive and enthusiastic, and had a genuine heart for helping others. I wish you comfort and healing as you grieve his loss.
    11/03/2025 11:23 am
    James Rizzo lit a candle and writes,
    Bruce and I grew up in the same neighborhood in Wilmington, DE. We had a love for sports and exercise. I've kept in touch with his sister Lynn since we were all good friends and went to the same school- IHM. I'm saddened and shocked by the passing of Bruce at such a young age. He was a great guy and will be missed tremendously! My sincere condolences go out to all of the Pabian family. RIP BRUCE! James
    11/18/2025 11:34 am

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