Obituary of Bruce John Bannister

Bruce John Bannister went home to be with the Lord on June 9, 2025, at the age of 73. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family after a lengthy battle with cancer. Bruce was born in San Jose, CA, on May 27, 1952, to John and Ruth Bannister. At eight-years-old, Bruce went forward at church to receive Christ. He was forever changed and lived his entire life serving the Lord he loved. Through his teen-age years when many rebelled, Bruce was tucked away in his room, reading scripture and praying, which prepared him for the call of God on his life. When not home, he was busy with his family, cleaning numerous churches, getting them ready for Sunday worship. Bruce loved working with his hands, whether it was building or fixing, he did both for his entire life. As a young man, Bruce worked for United Technologies in San Jose; his career spanned 28 years. He met his wife, Dori, at the Santa Clara County Juvenile Hall, while they were serving in the Chaplaincy program. They knew immediately they were meant to be together, and soon had two incredible children, Amy and Ben. Bruce and Dori were ordained as Elders at Christian Community Church in 1993. Their lives were dedicated to building the Kingdom of God by serving in whatever capacity was needed. Recognizing their gifts of pastoring, they were sent out to start a church in Hollister, CA. in 1999, which they named Hillside Christian Fellowship. The church quickly outgrew their home and moved to where it still thrives to this day, now under the leadership of Gateway City Church. Through the unique giftings of Bruce and Dori, the church was able to establish several outreaches, working together with many county agencies. This included the Jail Chaplaincy, Men’s and Women’s transitional homes, Homeless Shelter and a Celebrate Recovery Program, which had a great impact on the town of Hollister. Bruce gave himself to people by listening, encouraging, and caring for them. He loved hearing God speak to him with fresh insights, that he could share with the church family on Sunday mornings. Pastor Bruce is often described as a gentle giant, a powerful intercessor, a lover of people, and a man of great honor and integrity. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Dori; his daughter, Amy; son Ben, and daughter-in-law, Jen; his three beloved, precious grandchildren, Owen, Noelle, and Eames; and his sisters, Beverly, Karen, and Marguerite. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 28, at 1:00pm, at Gateway City Church, 281 San Felipe Rd., Hollister, CA.