Ian BRUCE
Ian Donald Bruce, born on April 10, 1953, tragically passed away on October 16, 2023, at the family cottage in Lake of the Woods. He was enjoying time with his wife, Darlene, at his favorite place when the accident occurred. Ian’s love for boats and the lake began as a child when he moved to Kenora, Ontario, in 1963. He developed a passion for sailing and rowing, participating in competitions and even building his own kayaks and hydroplanes. Ian’s woodworking skills were renowned, and he was particularly proud of his 1936 Ditchburn boat. Outside of pursuing his hobbies, Ian had a successful career in finance and investment banking. He retired from Peters & Co. Limited in 2011 after serving as its Co-Chairman and built a second career as a board director for various companies, including Cameco Corporation and MEG Energy Corp. Ian strongly believed in giving back to the community, actively supporting the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation and serving as Chair of its board. He also contributed to the Investment Industry Association of Canada as a director and Chair. Ian was a remarkable man who will be deeply missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and colleagues.
Ian’s curious and problem-solving nature made him well-read and intellectually diverse, with a particular interest in history. Though he may have overwhelmed some with his knowledge, Ian’s humor, humility, and respectfulness endeared him to everyone he encountered. In addition to his professional and personal accomplishments, Ian cherished family moments and had memorable vacations with his loved ones, such as walking by flowing lava on the Big Island, encountering leafcutter ants in Costa Rica, and taking a boat trip through the Galápagos islands. Ian’s Finnish heritage played a significant role in his life, with saunas being a regular occurrence at the lake, even in the depths of winter.
Ian’s passing leaves a void in the lives of his beloved wife, Darlene, and their children, Allison, Eric, and Rob. He was also predeceased by his parents, Verna and Don, his sister Lynda, and various relatives. Ian’s sisters, Kathy and Liz, along with their families, mourn his loss, as do his brothers and sisters-in-law from Darlene’s large family. He also had a wide circle of friends, some of whom he had known since childhood. Skiing was a shared passion among Ian and his friends, with many memorable cat skiing trips to Chatter Creek over the years. The overwhelming support and kind words received by the family following his tragic accident deeply touched them.
The family expresses their gratitude to the friends and family who provided assistance in both Kenora and Calgary during this difficult time. As they navigate life without Ian, they would appreciate donations in his memory be made to the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 24, 2023, from 2:30 to 5 p.m. at the Calgary Golf and Country Club. The family requests that attendees adhere to a business casual dress code, as jeans are not allowed at the venue.
In memory of Ian Donald Bruce, donations can be made to the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation at 28 Oki Drive NW, Calgary, AB. T3B 6A8. Contributions can also be made online through the Ian D. Bruce Memorial Donations page: [donation link provided](https://my.childrenshospital.ab.ca/give/308064/#!/donation/checkout)