In Memory of

Bruce

George

McLeod

Obituary for Bruce George McLeod

It’s with heavy hearts and teary eyes that we must pen this notice to inform everyone that the world has lost yet another cherished loved one in the valiant battle against leukaemia. Bruce George McLeod was born March 18th, 1948 in the city of Owen Sound. However, it is said that Bruce’s mother, Kathleen (George), went into labour on the 17th. Given that it was St. Patty's Day and all, nobody was in a state to take her to the hospital until the 18th. This is an unsubstantiated rumour of course, but what better way to kick off honouring such a wonderful man, than by spreading a few tall tales. On may 7th, 2022, surrounded by loved ones, Bruce made his departure at the Ottawa General Hospital.

Bruce has always been respected by those who had the occasion to know him. A man of many names throughout the years: including “Juicy Brucey”,“Cleoder” and, of course, the infamous “GB” (AKA Grampa Bruce). Having been known by so many names, nothing would ever eclipse the name “Sweetie”, bestowed by his wife, Dottie. Dot and Bruce were never apart, inseparable through all their years together. They loved to travel, ride their Harley, go camping and tour almost every historical landmark and museum they could put their finger prints on. If they weren’t out exploring together, they were planning their next adventure. Their affection for one another and their time shared together is an inspiration for others - the type of material love stories are written about. To achieve something so beautiful is a testament to one’s character and Bruce has been known to be a character, from time to time.

He is remembered for so many things throughout his life: his career in banking, his love towards his eclectic group of lifelong friends, a caring neighbour, a Brother, Uncle, Grandfather (GB), Dad, Great Grandfather (GGB) and of course, a loving Husband. Still, with all of these accolades, he might be best known for a somewhat unique character trait that’s so influential, it’ll most certainly be remembered by generations. Bruce had a beautiful, infectious laugh. It was a laugh, for which all other laughs will be forever judged. A cadence so captivating that he could be immediately identified in a hall full of people. A presence so contagious that he could not only command a room with his laugh, but he had a talent of having others laugh along with him. This gift was so innate that even when he was in the midst of his leukaemia battle, he had the nursing staff constantly laughing. To be known for your wit and humour along with such a charismatic laugh, is truly something to behold and it makes us all so proud to have been able to be a part of his fantastic journey. So with the sweet, now must come the bitter. How can we possibly manage without our cornerstone, our patriarch, the glue that held us all together…

It is said that, “it takes a village to raise a child”, and this is true. Bruce raised his family amongst a community of friends/family that were so influential, as he has been as equally influential in their lives. He is so much a part of who we all are. You can feel him in our values - the way we judge and treat others and how we conduct ourselves during the odd weekend party, hunt camp outings, bluegrass festivals and motorcycle trips. He has woven himself into the very fabric of our existence. To have this sort of impact on so many is truly remarkable. It’s a gift that he’s earned throughout a lifetime of being there for us. Nothing could have ever prepared us for a life without him. Instead of worrying that this day may eventually come, we simply continued to laugh when you laughed and smile when you smiled. It became as easy as breathing. Now that he’s left us, we no longer feel so complete. Laughing and smiling just doesn’t come so easy. Yet amongst all our sadness, we wouldn’t change a single moment we had together. So instead we say, “Cheers!” to you, “Juicy Brucey” for always being at your best and constantly telling us how much we’re loved.

Bruce is survived by his wife Dorothy (Gamble) McLeod. He was the loving father of Rick (Sherry) McLeod, Rob McLeod and Jeff (Paula) McLeod. He will be missed by his grandchildren, Ryan (Brooke), Tyler, Ayden, Anna and Sophie.
Bruce is also survived by his brother, Barry, who is dealing with health issues with the love and support of his beautiful family, and a countless number of friends Bruce has met along the way of an incredible life’s journey from: Keady, Ontario where he and Barry spent their childhood on the farm, Owen Sound, Hartford, CT, Huntsville, Oshawa, Thornbury, Kanata, Perth and then wrapping up the tour with the past 30 years in Renfrew.

Professional Services have been entrusted to Zohr Family Funeral Home, 85 Munroe Avenue East, Renfrew. Cremation has taken place and private family services will be held to honour a man so greatly loved and respected. Those desiring may make donations in memory of Bruce to the Luekemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada, through the link below this obituary.