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McFARLANE: The physical passing of Ronald “Bruce” McFarlane on October 28th, 2019 was the exact opposite of his entrance to this world. He left peacefully and quietly in his bed under his beloved Denver Broncos blanket. His birth on April 26, 1934 was quite a fuss. His mother having quite a fright from a neighbourhood dog asked that the vicar be sent for and went to labour in her room upstairs at her mother’s house. Being Anglican meant that before they could even get a word in edgewise the Vicar had christened the wee bairn Ronald Bruce lest he have left the world quickly after being so early to be born. Bruce grew up in Montreal and spent some time in Winnipeg whilst his father served in the war. He loved his Montrèal, the Expos and all the people who made it their home. After attending Sir George Williams (Concordia University) he went on to work at the International YMCA, where late nights meant fresh bagels and meeting the jazz musicians at Bens after their sets. He also met the love of his life at this job. Biggest joke was that Evelyn didn’t really understand his proposal of marriage, she just nodded and smiled. Truth is that this English as a second language student would be by his side for just shy of 51 years. They married right quick on December 1, 1962. Best man with a pocket radio and ear wig giving updates to the vicar and others of this fateful Grey Cup! Likely the only Grey Cup Bruce missed out on ever. His usual spot by the tv, with a drink in hand and the oversized mixing bowl of plain chips, cheezies and pretzels as his companion for the afternoon and evening. He did get to attend Winnipeg hosting the Grey Cup in 2006. The snacks were very expensive, not so comfy seats either. Bruce and Evelyn had just shy of 51 years together until her passing in November of 2014. Dementia and Aphasia had taken most of her over the preceding years. Just before she died, she had a happy visit with Bruce, “oh yes Bruce, he is a good guy!” Yes, he was. They lived most of their lives in Brandon, with Bruce working at Brandon University in the Sociology, Distance Ed and finally for the Rural Development department. Many friends have come and gone, and even more basketball games were attended. He did love his Bobcat games. Left behind are his three children: Steven and his wife Heather and their daughter Jade; Martin and Penny, with their sons Nicholas and Tyler; and Kirsten and her children Tolian, Finn and Éowynn. Bruce left the world peacefully with the utmost of wonderful care from the staff at his care home. It was the best one could ever hope for, with their loved ones. At the moment there are no plans for a formal service. Should you wish to honour Bruce’s memory please take some time and get a piece of pie. Key Lime, or lemon meringue were his favourites, but don’t limit yourselves! Bruce never turned down a piece of pie and he would love to have you enjoy some too.