Obituary of Bruce Alexander McMillan

With a sense of peace for a well-lived and well-loved life, his family announces the passing of Bruce Alexander McMillan on September 23, 2024, at the Upper River Valley Hospital in New Brunswick.

Bruce was born on June 26, 1950, in Sudbury, Ontario, the middle child of Beatrice and Ian McMillan. He was predeceased by his mom, dad, and brother Brian McMillan.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, the love of his life, Debi McMillan, and their children Kate (Stef) McMillan, Jessica McMillan, Emily (Austin) Stewart, Jeff (Brooke) McMillan, his brother Ian (Barb) McMillan, and nine beloved grandchildren.

Bruce wore many hats. As an athlete, he played Junior A hockey and was the first draft pick for the CFL’s Ottawa Rough Riders in 1973. He was also a proud Mount Allison hockey and football player, and an avid tennis player and fisherman.

Bruce’s competitive spirit was matched only by his commitment to his community. He coached every youth team he could, sharing his knowledge and passion for sports with countless young athletes. His dedication to mentoring youth throughout his life made a lasting impact, instilling confidence, resilience and purpose in those he worked with.

Bruce worked as a teacher, principal, superintendent, appraiser, real estate agent, rink manager, and landscaper. However, his most important role was as a husband and a father. He was blindly loyal, fiercely intense, and exceptionally hard working. The love he showed his family had no boundaries.

He will be dearly missed. We take comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace, watching over us, and cheering us on, just as he always has. Rest now; you have certainly earned it.

A proud member of Wilmot United Church, his memorial service will be held at Wilmot United Church on Friday, September 27, 2024 at 2:00 pm officiated by Rev. Mary Tingley. For those unable to attend in person, this service will be livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/@WilmotUnitedChurch/streams. In lieu of flowers donations in Bruce’s memory may be made to the Concussion Legacy Foundation of Canada or Alzheimer Society.