Bruce Ledger
July 07, 1951 – June 29, 2019
New Hope legend Bruce Ledger, known as “Geritol Kane” passed away on June 29, 2019.
Bruce lived in Stockton, NJ and New Hope, PA. He worked for the courts in Hunterdon County as a court stenographer, but is remembered most for all his years working in local restaurants. He worked at the Cartwheel, the Raven, Inn at Phillip’s Mill, Logan Inn, Hamilton’s Grill and DeAnna’s Restaurant in Lambertville.
Recently at the Raven in New Hope, a memorial and drag show hosted by Miss Pumpkin was held in his honor. Bruce was the iconic drag queen “Geritol Kane,” performing at the Cartwheel, where he managed the bar for many years and later at the Raven. Performers came out of retirement to honor him, including Joe Black. His favorite songs were played among laughter and tears.
With his friends and family gathered, they had fond memories of Geritol to share. He often did an act portraying Susan Lucci’s character Erica Kane on the soap All My Children. Susan Lucci, who was nominated 18 times for an Emmy before winning, became synonymous for her line, “What does a person have to do around here to get an Emmy?” Geritol often mimicked this in his act.
His brother-in-law recalled that the day he married Geritol’s sister, they had to drive Geritol to the airport. He said Geritol was always there for him, and so loved his family. His niece spoke about him as being such a loving uncle who would always help out.
Friends echoed this sentiment, saying he was always there to lend his support and a little bit of hairspray. Kitty Keiser recalled working with Geritol. She said he would get to the bar late and set up a row of Barbie dolls first along the bar, but his customers were devout followers. The one thing they all agreed on was that he did it “all his way.”
Geritol often participated in New Hope Celebrates’ Pride Parade, standing in a convertible blowing kisses to the crowd. He was so much to so many people and will be remembered as a big part of the community.
As Mary Margaret said, “That dazzling smile was one in a million.”
Friends echoed this sentiment, saying he was always there to lend his support and a little bit of hairspray. Kitty Keiser recalled working with Geritol. She said he would get to the bar late and set up a row of Barbie dolls first along the bar, but his customers were devout followers. The one thing they all agreed on was that he did it “all his way.”
Geritol often participated in New Hope Celebrates’ Pride Parade, standing in a convertible blowing kisses to the crowd. He was so much to so many people and will be remembered as a big part of the community.
As Mary Margaret said, “That dazzling smile was one in a million.”
