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BRUCE DANIEL SWITZER
Born: Dec 02, 1967
Date of Passing: Jul 18, 2016
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryBRUCE DANIEL SWITZER Bruce Daniel Switzer was born on December 2 1967 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to James and Sharon (Leavens) Switzer. He grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, graduating from Kildonan East Regional Secondary School in 1986. Bruce joined the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry during high school and served for two years, attaining the rank of Corporal. He specialized in vehicular recovery. Being of an adventurous spirit, Bruce moved out west, found work in Edmonton and Calgary and spent several years there, employed in a variety of occupations, enjoying life in all respects. Upon returning to Winnipeg in early 2000, Bruce attended Red River Community College, eventually achieving a Red Seal in carpentry. He worked in a variety of locations across Canada, and was involved in the construction of large-scale projects in northern Canada such as dams, and mining towns. Here in Winnipeg Bruce participated in the construction of the MTS Centre, James Richardson International Airport and more. Bruce enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies and interests including hang gliding, motorcycling, kayaking and more. Through his eclectic collection of activities and his exuberant zest for life, Bruce met and had an impact on the lives of many friends and acquaintances. Bruce first met Tanya Gidge at the construction site of the James Richardson International Airport. Their first date was a motorcycle ride to Grand Beach on July 23 2011. Caught in a rainstorm, they stopped for tea at Tim Hortons. They were together every day after that. Bruce and Tanya were wed September 1 2012, living a full life together, enjoying numerous adventures and activities, up until his sudden, unexpected passing on Monday, July 18 at 7:50 a.m. at the Health Sciences Center in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He was 48 years old at the time. According to Bruce and Tanya's wishes, Bruce was cremated, and his kidneys have been donated to two recipients. This act exemplifies his selfless, caring nature, which was evident all through his life. Bruce is survived by his wife, Tanya and family, his parents, James and Sharon; brother, Cameron; and many relatives across the country. A Celebration of Bruce's life was held on Thursday, July 21, 2016 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Norwood Hotel, 112 Marion Street. We are profoundly grateful for the exceptional care provided by the staff of the MICU at Health Sciences Centre. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests you consider a donation to a registered organ donation charity of your choice, such as Canadian Transplant Society, or Canadian Transplant Association.
Publish Date: Jul 23, 2016
BRUCE DANIEL SWITZER It is with extreme sadness the family announces the sudden, unexpected passing of Bruce on July 18, 2016. A celebration of Bruce's life will be held on Thursday, July 21, 2016 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Norwood Hotel, 112 Marion Street. Longer obituary to follow.
Publish Date: Jul 20, 2016
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 23, 2016
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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Harvey Duncan, not sure if you will read this but that's a true story about the motorbike. I was behind him watching on his bike, he was riding mine at the time. It comes a sad and sudden surprise to find out about this several months later. I will always remember Bruce as someone who could make memories out of any situation. Its sad for the world to lose him at such a young age. - Posted by: Colin (Friend) on: Oct 24, 2016
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Many many many years ago - when we were very young (16) Bruce taught me how to drive. He had an ugly orange VW bug with a really bad transmission. It was a standard. Learning to drive is hard. Learning to drive on a standard ... Lets just say I didn't help the tranny any while I learnt!!! I still remember those days and I still laugh as I remember his face every time I ground the gears or popped the clutch!!!! We hadn't seen each other in a long time but when I heard he had passed... I am sorry I could not say good bye - You will be missed... - Posted by: Mindy (Burgoyne) Brown (Friend) on: Jul 26, 2016
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I was instructing at the International Training Centre in Las Vegas and bruce was in attendance with the contingent from Winnipeg. He had gone out to the Strip the previous evening and had enjoyed himself no doubt. When I saw him the next day he looked a little stiff and sore so I asked him what the problem was. He told me he had a sore back and had done it the night before. So he pulled up his shirt and he looked as if someone had taken a shredder to his lower back! I mean it looked raw!!! I asked him what on earth he had done to himself and he explained...He had tried to plank across an outdoor escalator and got to the bottom and fell off but he got caught by the steps and rolled onto the grating at the end and mangled. Then he laughed so hard at himself and I did too! he was infectious and had that ability not to take himself so seriously. I will truly miss him and that wonderful sense of humour! Peace Brother! - Posted by: Brian Smith (Friend / Union Brother) on: Jul 26, 2016
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One time when Bruce and I were talking several years ago I remember him telling me this story. He was riding his motorcycle down Deerhead Trail in Alberta. He came off the on ramp and gunned it. He was going a cat walk then realized the light was coming up fast. So he let of the gas brought the bike down then applied the front brake so that the back tire came off the ground. He stopped right at the light and then the back tire came back down. It just so happened that the police were behind him the whole time. The officer told Bruce that if what he did wasn't so damn good the ticket would have been more. He had a flare for life that I think we could all aspire too. Going to miss you Bruce! - Posted by: Harvey Duncan (Cousin) on: Jul 24, 2016
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Hiroko and I planned this trip home a few months ago. The sudden trip to the hospital was unexpected but fortunately we had our flight home so we're able to come and spend the last week with Bruce and Tanya, holding hands, hugging, sharing memories, positive energy, love, gratitude and appreciation. Bruce did not have a negative bone in his body. He was an adventurer, a talker, and a lover of life. And he dearly loved his wife and partner Tanya. I miss Bruce. And I will continue to miss him because he is my brother. And we will always be connected in energy no matter where we may walk. I hope you are riding the most glorious Harley with wings, my brother. I love you. Cam - Posted by: Cameron (Brother) on: Jul 23, 2016
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I am on vacation in White Rock and just read with DEEP SADNESS about the passing of Bruce. I am honored to have so many wonderful and amazing memories of the students I was privileged to teach during my career as an educator. Bruce is one of my fondest and most special memories. The sparkle in his eyes and his vigorous enthusiasm for life gave me so much joy. From the obituary I realize that this enthusiasm carried throughout his life long after our paths parted. I am so sorry for your loss and hope that the many special memories you are left with will help carry you through these difficult times. - Posted by: Pat Bryski (former teacher/friend) on: Jul 23, 2016
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We are so very sorry and sad to hear of your tremendous loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers! - Posted by: Allison and Berni Harder (Neighbors to Sharon and Jim) on: Jul 23, 2016
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Tanya, I am so sorry for your loss, Bruce is a great guy and will be missed. - Posted by: Soo Lee (Former Colleague) on: Jul 21, 2016
