Obituary of Joseph Martin Bruce, New Waterford

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved husband and father, father-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and cousin, on Thursday morning, August 20th, 2020 at Harbourstone. Born on March 14, 1932, Joe was the son of the late Martin and Mary Bruce of New Waterford. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Reynelda (MacKinnon) Bruce; sons, Robert Bruce, New Waterford, Kenny (Anne Breski) Bruce of Sydney; sister, Lorraine (Edward) Pickett and Donna (Gary) Cameron and nieces and nephews. Dad loved his family. He enjoyed the many camping trips with family and friends and often made new friends along the way. He loved traveling to Florida with family and friends. He loved to laugh and see others laugh. Along dad's road, he also had many grand-dogs. His love for his family was also manifested in his tireless advocacy for the improvement of community and health services; this was a personal cause for dad. He worked with Maritime Tel and Tel for 40 years. He was instrumental in the initiation and establishment of the Cape Breton Chapter of the Schizophrenia Society and served as the provincial President and on the National Board. He also enjoyed the fellowship of belonging to the New Waterford Rotary Club and was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship Award in 1994. Dad also was well known for his saxophone playing as he played professionally for over 30 years with his last band being "The Echoes." There will be no visitation.Cremation has taken place under the care and guidance of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, New Waterford. A private Funeral Mass of celebration will be held in the Parish Church of St. Leonard with Father Ray Huntley officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Carmel Cemetery, New Waterford. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the SPCA or Two Rivers Wildlife Park. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca. Our family extends sincere thanks to the staff of Harbourstone (MacDougall Court), for their great care and kindness. " I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the Faith." 'Love you forever'