Thursday August 29th 2019
Withers, Bruce
John Wayne said it best “Courage is being scared to death… and saddling up anyway.”
Rooster (Bruce) lived by this quote in his last 60 years.
Bruce Craig Withers – a man of integrity and true grit, including his gift of steadfastness ….. but most of all, he was a gift, as a husband, father, step father, grandfather, son, brother & friend . Bruce passed away on August 29,2019, the age of 60 after living every moment to the fullest. A man of his word and full of love. Together, Bruce and his endearing wife, Carolyn (Carrie) of 16 years blended together their families, giving them a life of incredible family experiences.. Bruce was “the rock” in their family, a true gentleman in every way.
Carolyn was loved deeply and without reservation and she continues to cherish the memories, the stubbornness, his willingness to see the world one beach at a time despite the risk. He chose life first! Her love for him will endure throughout time.
Geoff & Stephanie, Craig & Isabelle, Amanda & Matt, Ryan & Sarah, Brett will always cherish their family time; holidays, get togethers, or just watching the game with their dad (step dad, father in law). Bruce was so proud of them all, the responsible adults they grew to be, paths taken, their choice of life partners and nurturing parents they have become. Bruce was the father he didn’t have to be, without hesitation he filled and became a role model of a loving father, and his legacy will always live on. He will always be their hero!
Bruce’s eyes lit up whenever his grandchildren Riley, Austin, Gracie, Sadie and Emily entered a room or mentioned in conversation. He adored them all and loved the « squeeze me » hugs. They will always have a protective angel watching over them.
His roots started on a small family dairy farm in Napanee, it was always a part of his heart, no matter where life took him. Bruce was the baby brother to Lloyd and Chris but clearly he got the height gene being 6’3” which always made fun time for their family photo. Lloyd & Jean, Chris & Liz and families will cherish the times spent together with the most memorable being « that time in Bermuda ». His parents Bette and late Lloyd Withers encouraged him to pursue his post secondary education at Kemptville College in agricultural studies (his mom often bragged about his 4H achievements). Bruce’s path eventually led him to Stratford and where he started his 33 year career at VicWest. Many friendships developed here are often spoke of. Bruce appreciated the support and kindness from all when was no longer able to work. He was a committed lifetime fan to the Toronto Maple Leafs always starting off the season saying « this is the year!! »
Ernie and Sharon Clark knew their daughter found true love when Bruce became part of the Clark family. Many family moments and laughter have been shared with Deb, Brad & Julie and their families. Also celebrations, vacations, golfing in this family always included the Cross, Mason, Grin, Lasenby & Giles families.
We invite you to his celebration of life at Thamesview United Church, 3178 Perth Rd 163 Fullarton, ON. An informal visitation between 11 am – 12:45 pm with a light lunch served & photoshow played before 1 pm service on Monday September 2nd 2019. Graveside burial will follow with Rev Nancy Knowles officiating.
All are welcome to “Rooster Last Crow” on Friday, September 20th at 7:00 pm at the Queens Inn, 161 Ontario St, Stratford A time to share your memories, raising a cheer and listening to the music Rooster loved!
Bruce and his family were shown incredible care and compassion during his illness. Thank you to our family, friends, the London Cancer Clinic and Pain Specialist, Stratford Hospital, Stratford Home Services, and to the wonderful compassionate staff and volunteers at the Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth – words can never express the gratitude we have for the last weeks helping all of us with this last part of the journey.
Although his wife loves flowers, Bruce loved sports and asked to fill the sanctuary with new or nearly new sport equipment to donate to players and teams of Fullarton Fastball or Stratford Rotary Hockey (organizations he coached and umpired in past years). Monetary donations are appreciated to Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth or Thamesview United Church who accepted him with open arms and where many friendships were made.
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Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Bruce Withers..
Décès pour la Ville:Mitchell, Province: Ontario