J. BRUCE BRACKEN -

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J. BRUCE BRACKEN 1911 - 2001 John Bruce Bracken died peacefully on Monday, October 22, 2001, at The Convalescent Home of Winnipeg. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Shirley McKinnon Russell in 1997; his brothers, Douglas and George (Marjorie) and his parents, John and Alice. He is survived by his children, Bruce Bracken (Barbara) of Cincinnati, OH, (Rick, Barbie and Jim Hankin, Tim and Michelle Bracken, and Jennifer), Wendy Kennedy (Tony) of Salt Spring Island, BC, (Daniel and Sarah), Richard Bracken (Kathryn) of Winnipeg (Taylor, David, Geoff, and John) their mother, Bruces first wife Gwendolyn Smith of Richmond, BC; the children of his second wife, Shirley, Barry Russell (Deborah) of Phoenix (Meredith and Andrew), Nancy LeBlond (Ted) of Winnipeg (Chris, Trevor, Colin and Nicholas) and his great-grandchildren, Holly, David, and Jack Hankin, and Tyler Bracken. He is also survived by his brother Gordon Bracken (Ruth) of Toronto, and sister-in-law Rosemary Bracken of Winnipeg. Bruce deeply cherished his children and grandchildren, who were the focus of his life. His love and support were evident at their musical recitals, hockey and football games, school and university functions, graduations, and careers. His Second World War service aboard Canadas HMCS Prince Henry was followed by a career as an optician, first with Ramsay Matthews and then with Stewart N. King, where many people returned to him faithfully for years for his highly professional service, and to experience his warmth and charm. His dedication to community service was demonstrated by his position as an Honorary 33rd Degree of the Scottish Rite, and by his membership in the Shrine and the Rotary Club. These activities, as well as golf, curling, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and the Jesters, were all significant parts of his life, because they allowed him to enjoy the company of many friends. His loyalty and sense of fairness were innate values, which he did his utmost to exemplify and pass on to his children and grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 10 at St. Andrews River Heights United Church, Oak Street and Kingsway. The family wishes to thank The Convalescent Home of Winnipeg, especially nurses Evelyn and Betty, and the rest of the 3rd floor staff, for their loving care. If friends so desire, donations in Bruces memory can be made to The Convalescent Home of Winnipeg, 276 Hugo St. N., Winnipeg, MB, R3M 2N6. (204-453-4663). THOMSON FUNERAL CHAPELS 783-7211

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 09, 2001