Bret Alan Gladden

Bret "Bones" Gladden left this world peacefully in his home in Boulder Creek, surrounded by friends and family. Born in San Jose and one of six siblings, Bret grew up in Saratoga and San Jose, earning the childhood nickname "Bones" that stayed with him for life.

Bret dedicated over 40 years to Northrop Grumman, beginning his career at just 18 as a crane operator and retiring as a highly skilled tool-and-die maker. In 1983, he married the love of his life, Victoria, and together they built 45 beautiful years of partnership. That same year, they purchased their home in Boulder Creek and, over the decades, transformed it into a peaceful, welcoming refuge filled with warmth, hard work, and Bret's signature craftsmanship. Generous to his core, Bret was always the first to help a neighbor or friend with any project-large or small.

Bret was also the greatest sponsor and a proud member of the Buck Lake Hunt Club (BLHC), where he found not only a place to hunt, but a true place of brotherhood and a second home. He cherished the camaraderie, the brotherhood, and the deep bonds forged in the woods with his fellow members. Every season brought stories, laughter, mentorship, and memories he held dear. His love for traditional bowhunting and the time spent on his brother's farm in Watertown, Minnesota each fall were among his most treasured traditions.

A man of many passions, Bret loved riding and working on his 1966 Sportster, sharing his love of baseball while coaching countless young athletes in the San Lorenzo Valley Little League, and spending long, peaceful hours fishing the Santa Cruz waters in his Boston Whaler. His sense of humor, storytelling, and unwavering ability to make others laugh were gifts he shared freely.

Bret is survived by his wife Victoria, his sons Kyle and Shawn, his father Clinton, his siblings Dan, Jeff, and Shannon, his granddaughters Daphne and Kaila, and many beloved nephews and nieces. He was an extraordinary husband, father, friend, brother, neighbor, mentor, member and sponsor, someone whose kindness, wisdom, and steady presence shaped the lives of everyone around him.

He will be profoundly missed. His memory, his legacy, and his generous spirit will live forever in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him. Always.

Published in Press Banner · December 15, 2025