Bruce Marshall

Bruce Roger Marshall, of Ottawa, Ontario, died suddenly on Saturday September 24th, at the age of 78, while enjoying one of his greatest passions.

Born March 12, 1944, Bruce came to Canada at the age of 12. After high school he enlisted in the Navy and graduated from McGill University as an Mechanical Engineer. He qualified as an Aeronautical Engineer and worked chiefly with helicopters for the next eight years. Changing careers at the age of thirty, Bruce attended U of T completing his medical degree in 1978. During his career with the Armed Forces, he and the family enjoyed many wonderful experiences as they were posted to Europe for 6 years.  Returning to Canada in the late 80s, after a distinguished 30 years of service, he retired from the Armed Forces at the age of 48. He then entered private practice as a general physician, specializing in HIV/AIDS treatment and drug rehabilitation programs. This work provided him a tremendous appreciation for the underserved in the city and he began to spearhead other programs in the city to help those most in need. He retired from medical practice just before turning 65, while continuing to work serving the community through church and the Multifaith Housing Initiative. He was particularly proud to have participated in “The Haven” and “Veteran’s House”.

Bruce had many interests. He loved music. He was a singer, guitar and brass player and loved to pretend he was a pro drummer. He skied, sailed, played soccer, squash and tennis. He was a born “tinkerer”, fixing machines, broken dishes and toys, and anything else that didn’t work.

Above all, he loved his family. He will be forever missed by his wife Mary Frances, Daughters Christine Binns (Gavin), Lesley Millar (Rod) and his son Roger. Also, his grandchildren Rachel, Hayden, Megan, Aimee and Tessa. Bruce also leaves to mourn his sisters Gillian Rourke and Sarah Marshall. as well as many in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins in his large extended family. His many friends will hold his memory dear.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St John the Evangelist Anglican Church on Elgin Street in Ottawa at 2:00 PM on Saturday October 29th. Visitation from 12:30 to 1:30 in the church with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bruce’s name to The Multifaith Housing Initiative, St John’s Church or the charity of your choice.