Obituaries

Bruce Allen Kolesnick, a UB staff member known for his upbeat personality, wry wit and smooth, baritone voice that made him the popular master of ceremonies at countless UB events, died on July 4 after suffering a heart attack in his Buffalo home. He was 60.

As associate director for marketing and programs in the Office of Special Events, Kolesnick provided logistics and management support for numerous events held at the university, including commencement and the Distinguished Speakers Series. He oversaw the development and growth of the office’s online registration/RSVP service that now is used for most UB events.

“He has always been my go-to guy for special projects and to discuss anything related to the office,” said William J. Regan, director of special events, who’s known Kolesnick for more than two decades. “I knew I could rely on him for wise counsel and I could trust him to keep matters confidential.

“The bonus for all of us,” Regan said, “was his ability to always bring laughter into the office and to keep things light in stressful situations. He was fun to be around, and generous to a fault. We all miss him terribly.”

A native of Buffalo, Kolesnick earned an associate’s degree from Herkimer County Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Medaille College and a master’s degree from UB.

He embarked on a career in radio, first in Utica and Syracuse, then returning to Buffalo in the 80s with stops at WECK and WEBR, where he was host of “Weekend at Your Service.” He joined WBFO-FM 88.7, UB’s National Public Radio station, in 1986. He was the station’s award winning news director before being named interim general manager.

In 1991, Kolesnick was appointed special assistant to UB’s executive director of the World University Games. At the conclusion of the games in 1993, he joined the Office of Conferences and Special Events as associate director for marketing and programs.

Friends and family are invited to share their favorite stories and memories of Kolesnick at a celebration of his life to take place at 11 a.m. July 12 in the Drama Theatre in the Center for the Arts, North Campus. A reception in the CFA atrium will follow the service. Those attending are asked to RSVP.