In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar

 

William Weir (Gus) Bruce

 

RCN

 

Born: 22 Nov 1933

 

Died: 05 Aug 2021

 

BRUCE, William Weir (Gus) - “No more a watch to stand, Old Sailor. For you are drifting on an ebbing tide. Eight bells has rung. Dog Watch is done. A new berth waits you on the other side.” Author Unknown.

 

Bill “Gus” Bruce; son, brother, husband, partner, father, grandfather, and veteran, passed away while a resident of the VA Hospital in Halifax. His final days were spent with people holding his hand, stroking his head, giving him love to take on his journey, sharing much laughter, music, memories.

 

He was a man of many hats, most of them Tilley ones. It was his thing. His diversified background of various jobs was incredible, showing his versatility and strength, and his ability to adapt. He served in the navy for 25 years, travelled the world, and was a veteran of the Korean war, as well as serving on the HMCS BONAVENTURE. His property in Florida during the winter months later in life was a source of peace and possible shenanigans!

 

Bill is survived by his half-sister Mabel Porter, sons Paul (Maureen), John (Tracey), grandchildren Robyn, Makayla, Leah, Luke and Rachel, who meant so much to him.

 

Bill was predeceased by wife Rita Bruce and life partner June McNeilly.

 

Many thanks to the staff at the Camp Hill Veterans Hospital, to the wonderful nurses, (the heart of a hospital) the doctors and staff of 6E who gave him love and care, who were his family when we couldn’t be there during COVID, who shared heartwarming stories of him with us. A good legacy.

 

A special mention to Don Steeves, a longtime friend who loved Bill as we do and whose visits made a difference.

 

Visitation will be at Atlantic Funeral Homes, 771 Main Street, Dartmouth, Tuesday August 10th, 6 to 9pm.

 

Due to current Covid regulations space is limited and we ask that you contact the funeral home at 902-864-1434 between 9am-5pm to reserve your attendance.

 

A private family ceremony will take place Wednesday August 11th.

 

In lieu of cards and flowers, please consider donations to Parkinson’s Society of Nova Scotia, Diabetes Canada or the SPCA.

 

We will all watch that corner, Billy. Always.

 

Ships served in:

HMCS BONAVENTURE

 


 

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