Obituary of BRUCE JAMES LINDSAY

Bruce Lindsay
August 11, 1957 – September 30, 2024

On September 30, 2024, with his family by his side at the age of 67, Bruce passed away peacefully after a short battle with cancer. He was predeceased by his father, Jock Lindsay; his mother, Carrie Lindsay; and his niece, Sharon Lowe.

Bruce is lovingly remembered by his wife, Mary, who he married on December 30, 2006. The couple had been together since May 1999, sharing over two decades of love and companionship. Bruce is also survived by his stepchildren, Melanie (Paul) and Michael (Johanna), as well as his beloved grandchildren, Addison and Chevy, who affectionately called him “Grumpa.” Bruce will also be deeply missed by his sister, Jan Lowe, and brother, John Lindsay (Carmen) of Edmonton, along with his nieces and nephews: George (Wanda), Melissa, Jason, and Jennifer. He leaves behind extended family and many friends who cherished his warmth, humor and straight-forwardness.

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Bruce attended Crane, Viscount Alexander, and Vincent Massey schools. Growing up Bruce spent many weekends and summers at Royal Lake with Uncle Michael, Aunty Kit, Brian and Sue. The lake was his escape and, on Sundays, when it was time to leave, if you couldn’t find Bruce, he could always be found hiding by the rock. 

Despite many challenges in his life, over the years, he found his way by building his career working at T. Trouser, California Clothing Company, Canada Cases, and finally at Lowe Mechanical. He was a strong presence everywhere he worked and was fiercely loyal to the companies and workplaces where he spent his days.

For a long golden age Bruce cared for an old one-room highwayman’s cottage on Moth Lake, which was his in all but title. The cottage served as a refuge—a first resort for fishing, fun, exchanging quarters over cards, and is remembered by the soundtracks of summers well spent. Though there was often friendly fire over control of the CD player, Bruce would occasionally claim his space with some of his firmly-held favorites, including Little Feat, Gram Parsons, and—what would become his and Mary’s song—the Amazing Rhythm Aces’, “Burning the Ballroom Down.” Moth Lake was the first of many lakeside views and fishing spots shared by him and Mary.

Bruce was a true-hearted friend, none more so than to his schoolyard pal Tom (TK), who became his lifelong companion both on land and lakes. While they welcomed others into the boat, they always occupied the permanent seats. During the Red River flood of 1997, Bruce and TK took to the boat, rescuing people and pets alike, embodying the selflessness that was so core to Bruce’s nature.

A creature of habit and lover of routine, Bruce could reliably be found smoking on the front steps of the home he shared with Mary. If you pulled over to the curb, he’d amble up to you, and you could talk about your day, or his, the latest news or the weather. You’d always leave a little warmer, a little more human, for the exchange. Despite his personal struggles, Bruce had an ease with others that he didn’t have with himself. His way was genuine, reasonable and accepting—he didn’t suffer fools, but neither did he assume you were one.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Houston and CancerCare Manitoba, the staff at Poseidon Long-Term Care Home and at RR2 for supporting Bruce.

Family and friends are welcome at a memorial for Bruce at Cropo Funeral Home, 1442 Main Street, on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at 1:00 pm. Those who wish to honor his memory can make donations to the Bruce Oake Recovery Center, https://www.bruceoakefoundation.com/donate. 

Bruce’s legacy will live on in the love of his family, the laughter of his grandchildren, and the lifelong friendships he so fiercely nurtured. May he rest in peace. He will be missed.