MELVIN BRUCE -

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MELVIN BRUCE 1919 - 2011 It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of Melvin Bruce on June 17, 2011 at St. Boniface Hospital. Melvin is survived by his wife Lillian, son Wayne (Heather), and daughter Darlene (David) McDey. Extended family: Judi Bell, Gerald Bell, and Cindy; grandchildren Marie-Christine (Jean-Luc), Talisa and Shelley as well as Captain Michael Bell, Cori and Ken Schott, Derek Bell, sister Grace Sutton, brother Ed (Sybil) and numerous nieces and nephews. Melvin is predeceased by his Father and Mother, brother Herman, sister Marion Devore of British Columbia and wife Irene. Mel Bruce was born in Ekhart, Manitoba and resided in Argyle, later moving to Winnipeg. With generations of fiddlers in the family background, it is little wonder that Mel would have a desire to play the fiddle. Mel was six years old when he began playing on a small cigar box-shaped violin. His first tune was Bye Bye Blackbird. Mel received no formal training, learning to play by ear. Mel performed on CKSB Radio in Winnipeg and played with several groups including Larry's Ranch Boys, West Winds, South Glen Fiddlers and Mel's Rhythmares. He regularly shared his music at various Senior's homes. His CD For Old Tyme Sake was recorded and released through Sunshine Records. Mel judged, participated in and won many contests in Western Canada and USA. His favourite contest memory was in 1955 at Lido Plage, Manitoba, before a crowd of 5000, placing first in a group of 28 entrants amongst notables as Andy DeJarlis, Pete Legere, and Floyd LaCroix. Mel encouraged and was a long-time inspiration to young and old fiddlers through his strong desire in performing and sharing his musical talent. Mel was a Master Barber for over 60 years. His shop was located on Henderson Highway. On retirement he taught at Bruno's School of Hair Styling and barbered at Lion's Place for another 10 years. Mel had a love for people, an easy going nature, and a great sense of humour. He will be missed. Memorial Service to take place on Thursday, June 23, 2011, 10:00 a.m. at Glen Eden Funeral Home, 4477 Main Street. Interment and reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 6 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K6, or the Kidney Foundation, Unit 1 - 452 Dovercourt Drive, Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1G4. Glen Eden Funeral Home 338-7111 www.gleneden-mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 21, 2011