In Loving Memory of
Bruce MacKenzie
1958 - 2021
Obituary of Bruce MacKenzie
Bruce MacKenzie or "Papa"Passed away in his home, with family by his side and the Rolling Stones playing softly in the background on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 at the age of 63. Loving spouse to June for 24 years, and cherished father to Alex (Jessica), Brittany (Bryan), Deanna (Shawn), and Kristen (Steve). Adored Papa to Ashton, Mason, Layla, Camryn, Callum, and Aiden. Admired brother to Ann (the late Jim) Wallace, Ada (the late Frank) Sawyer, David (Joan) MacKenzie, the late Rick (Merle) MacKenzie, and Wayne MacKenzie. Loving son of his late parents Doris and Alexander MacKenzie. Bruce will be greatly missed by all his nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends that he impacted during his life.
The one thing that meant the most to Bruce was his family, and this shows through all the memories and stories that they all have. He loved to fish, specifically ice fishing which he would share many trips with his wife or son to join him in. Going to many concerts and live hockey games were another source of happiness for him, taking him all the way from seeing the Rolling Stones to Montreal Canadiens games! He and June made a few trips to Newfoundland to visit family and explore the province. Together, they enjoyed smaller road trips as well to pass time and have fond memories from their trips to New Hampshire to visit Ann and Jim. Most of all, Bruce loved his grandchildren. He would spoil them (which is what Papas are good for!) with jujubes, candy, and everything they wanted. While in his younger years, Bruce coached his own kids in hockey and lacrosse and loved being a fan at his daughter’s soccer games and dance recitals. He never missed a grandkids sports game to cheer them on and be their biggest fan. He was especially proud of his grandson, who will be passing down the “MacKenzie” name to his own children one day.
Bruce was quick to help anyone and consistently put his heart and soul in his career. He worked in the Environmental Services department through the Niagara Health System at St. Catharines General Hospital and started there when he was 19. He worked for decades, retiring at the age of 55 and still putting in occasional shifts there after that. Despite his job title, he went above and beyond. If there was ever a child in the waiting room that was crying, he would go over with a colouring book or just a smile to help cheer them up. If someone needed help, he would be sure to do whatever he could to make them feel better. He made some lifelong friends and loved his work family. Most people would recognize him coming from down the hall by his happy whistling and proud smile.
Essentials Cremation and Burial Services (905-354-2133) has been entrusted with arrangements. As per Bruce’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private graveside service will take place with family and friends at a later date. During this, he will be laid to rest with his parents at Fairview Cemetery in Niagara Falls. Donations to the Children’s Hospital – London Health Sciences Centre would be greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be shared to Bruce’s tribute page at EssentialsNiagara.com.
Service Information
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Children’s Hospital – London Health Sciences CentreVisit Site
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So very sorry to hear of Bruce’s passing. My deepest condolences to you June and all the family..I worked with Bruce for over 35 yrs and not a single time did we not chat and laugh in the hallway..He had a big heart and is going to be missed like crazy..Rest in peace my good friend..
I am so sorry to have just learned about Bruce’s passing. Too young, very sad & such a huge loss to You All. My Deepest Condolences to You all. You sure will be misssed in passing in the hallways with our chats Bruce. May You R.I.P.
Brenda
June, I saw the love and care you had for each other. Bruce’ was so kind hearted and will be dearly missed. ❤️💜 In memory of Bruce I am sending a donation to Children’s Hospital – London Health Sciences Centre.
So sad to hear this news. Bruce was a great guy and unfortunately gone way too soon. My deepest condolences go out to June and the family. 💔😢
I got to know Bruce who would come to work part time here in EVS at GNG he was so pleasant and friendly to everyone a real nice guy my condolences to June and the family
So very sorry June. We are thinking of you all at this time.
Bruce was that smiling face in the halls of the old and new St.Catharines General sites. Being an “oldie” myself, we all shared a special workplace bond. There would always be an exchange of a little greeting when we passed. I’m so sorry that you did not have more years of spending time with your beloved husband, father and grandfather. It does sound though, that you have many loving memories that will always be you. Sending my heartfelt condolences to you all.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Family at this sad time.I was very lucky to have met Bruce when he first started at SCG so many yrs ago.We shared many talks, laughs and photos of our kids.Bruce was always such a kind guy ready to assist if anyone in xray ever needed his help.Great smile!RIP Bruce.Gone too soon.
So saddened to hear Peace and Love to Bruce’s family I was blessed to have known Bruce working at Scs Queenston st site and at Gng. Site Bruce made us all smile He really was a Great Guy
My deepest condolences to Bruce’s family. He was a very kind man, always had a smile and a twinkle in his eye. He was sooo looking forward to retirement and spending time with “the wife” and family. I believe he wanted to go fishing too!!
RIP Bruce.
My deepest condolences to you June ! Bruce was a good friend. I’m a little in shock at the moment as I just found out and can hardly believe what I’m hearing ! I have a few great memories of Bruce that I’ll carry with me always. You June, will be in my prayers along with Alex and Brittany ! RIP Bruce until we meet again !
Bruce you will be greatly missed by all at Niagara Health!! It was great getting a chance to know you! You would light up the room with your smile always so happy I would like to send my condolences to Bruce’s Family. Very sorry for your loss may you find strength. Rest in piece Bruce ❤️
Our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to Alex, Jess and Brittany, June and the MacKenzie family.
Bruce was a very easygoing, laidback kind of guy. But it was his infectious smile which truly set him apart.
The day that Alex got married, Bruce’s big smile and total admiration of a proud father watching his son take the next step in his life truly stands out for me. Bruce truly loved his kids but his grandchildren he adored
We will all miss Bruce dearly
Barb and Tom
Our deepest condolences to you, Alex and Brittany, and your families and to your father’s family. We are so sorry for your loss.
I am so sorry to hear of Bruce’s passing he was such a great man and a good friend I will always remember his laughter his love of life and the joy that he brought so many rest in peace my friend
My condolences to the family I miss you booty bo
Our deepest condolences Alex, Jessica and the MacKenzie family. Memories and shared stories is a blessing to carry you forward. These are truly treasures of your father’s legacy to you and your life together.
My sincere and deepest condolences to Bruce’s family. Thinking of you all during this difficult time. I will cherish the memories from our Jamaica trip, my first Rolling Stones concert and the Walker family gathering (s). Also, our encounters when in the hospital hall ways, your infectious smile and reminiscing will be remembered. Rest In Peace Bruce.
Cecilia
Our condolences to the family, Bruce didn’t have a mean bone in his body. He loved to tell jokes and make people laugh.May he R. I. P
Our sincere condolences to the family
Hard to find the right words.Many times, Bruce would have us laughing till we had tears in our eyes.If he wasn`t whistling,he was singing.He will be missed by many.
Much love to the family during such a difficult time. Take good care of each other.
Sending love to you – June, Deanna & Kristen. Hoping the wonderful memories of your times with Bruce carry you through. Godspeed Bruce, I’ve loved reading the memories people have of you.
No matter what kind of day I was having Bruce could always make me laugh. He was always willing to lend a hand and offer advice. He will be greatly missed.
Rest easy my friend.
You will be missed big brother! I never saw Bruce in bad mood or gloomy he was always smiling no matter how tired he was. My condolences to all his loved ones. 💜
I am so sorry June. Bruce helped me out at emergency one time taking me back to see my Mom Such a kind hearted man..
Our deepest condolences go out to you June & your families during this difficult time and loss.
Dan & Christina Boone 💖
You will be missed. You alway had a smile and an ear to listen. You were a great person and co worker.
Rest in Peace
Always a smile on his face…that is how I will remember Bruce. One of my favourite coworkers.
My sympathy to his family on the loss of a true gentleman
Good all around guy!!!!
Bruce you have no idea how much you’ll be missed, Dennis and I both loved you like the brother you were.
Now that you’re both together again party like it was 1979
My condolences to all his family. I don’t think there was a single shift we worked together that he didn’t make me laugh out loud at least once. Rest easy Brewster.
One my favourite coworkers that brightened everyday with jokes and a big smile, he will be so missed! RIP to a great man