Passed away Monday 02 September 2019 in the Palliative Care Unit of the Victoria General Hospital holding hands with Dale and Keegan. Born in Halifax 13 January 1952, Bruce was the son of the late Charles and Catherine (Connors) Calnen and brother of the late Sandra (Sandy) Morgan.
Bruce was a retired member of the RCMP and while his career was cut short after 15 years because of serious health issues, the times he spent on the Force were some of the most interesting of his life including his time spent working as an undercover officer. During that period, he made many lifelong friends working with other RCMP and police officers from various forces who, in some cases, were tasked to keep him safe. He learned quickly who to trust in life and, once he placed his trust in you, it remained that way until his death. How many times have we been regaled by the stories only Bruce could tell in his very special way. His memory was flawless and family and friends were often left speechless at his recall of events whether recent or from years ago, and should anyone get even the smallest detail wrong, he was always quick to remind them of how it actually happened. When asked, the advice he often gave to potential or new recruits was "never disgrace the uniform".
He enjoyed travel and would often visit significant historical and religious sites of the countries he visited remarking that he read about it and wanted to see it. He liked to read, particularly anything having to do with crime, John Grisham novels, history books and anything about Oak Island, following the mystery from his childhood to the most recent television series and frequently offering his opinion on the subject. Then again, Bruce offered his opinion on almost everything in life, whether we were prepared for it or not.
Family and friends were very important to Bruce and he often spoke fondly of growing up with his buddies from childhood through to high school and the mischief they caused, as well as camping with Pete, travelling to Florida with Dan, golfing with Ross and the boys, watching Keegan grow into the husband and father he has become, keeping Cathy and Kim on their toes because they never knew what Uncle Bruce might do or say, a good party and quiet times with Dale. He lived life his way, never apologizing for anything, offering his advice whether it was asked for or not. He protected his family fiercely, would go out of his way to help if he thought you deserved it, took family and friends to task if he disagreed with what we were doing, and constantly reminded us that we were loved. His last few weeks were filled with the love, laughter and fond memories of a life lived to the fullest.
Bruce leaves to mourn the love of his life Dale Lawrence, son Keegan Dawson (Natalie) and adored grandchildren, Abigail, Zachary and Cassandra; his very tolerant brother in law, Dan Morgan, especially on those long drives to and from Florida; and his much loved nieces Cathy (Brian McKinnon) Middle Sackville; and Kim (Glen Baker) Fall River; great nieces and great nephew, Aaren, Andrea, Damon, Stephanie and their families.
Bruce was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Catherine Calnen, and his sister, Sandra (Sandy) as well as numerous Aunts and Uncles. It can never be said that Bruce did not live life to its fullest!
Family flowers only. Donations to the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) Halifax who were instrumental in his care and comfort through the last five years of his life or a charity of choice. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place on Monday September 9th from 1-4 pm at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax. Memorial service followed by a reception will be held at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, Tuesday, September 10th beginning at 11 am.
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