In memory of

Bruce Allen Powe

June 9, 1925 -  November 16, 2018

He slipped silently away on Friday November 16 at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre (K2East), Toronto, age 93. Sadly missed by son, Bruce William (Auxi Sánchez Ledesma), daughter Kathleen, and grandchildren Kate (Tom Weeks), Tom, Jeremy Earley and Elena Sanchez Powe. Predeceased by his wife Alys (2015) and son-in-law Paul Earley (2010). He will be missed by brother-in-law Ernie (Edmonton). Dear uncle to Dan (Geraldine), Nancy (Brad) and Joel (Colleen). A great loss to Joe Schlesinger (Judith Levene), Toronto, Ann (Dave) and Leah (Helmut) Schlesinger.

Bruce was born in Edmonton in 1925. He served overseas in the Canadian army 1943-1945, and then returned to Canada to take officer training (unfinished). He completed his BA and MA in economics at the University of Alberta. He married Alys Brady in 1949. Shortly after, they moved to Ottawa where Bruce spent many years working in government and politics, most notably with Lester Pearson and the team rebuilding the Ontario arm of Federal Liberal Party in the early 1960s. After he left politics, he spent most of his corporate life with the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association in Toronto, in government and public relations. All these jobs were in reality to support his true passion for writing. A gifted story teller and eloquent writer, he published six novels, several to critical acclaim.

BAP was a gentle sweet man who was remarkable in his ability to connect with people on any level. His knowledge of history, politics and literature was profound. His good nature, kindness, generosity, and keen sense of humour endeared him to all who met him. He was good company, perceptive and wise, and lots of fun to be around.

Up until two years ago, Bruce was in good health and still lived on his own. After suffering a debilitating stroke in November 2016 he moved to K-wing at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre. The care and compassion the staff and volunteers have for the vets is remarkable. We are forever in their debt.

A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday January 12, 2:00pm at the Mount Pleasant Visitation Centre, Toronto.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Bridge Hospice, Warkworth, Ontario. (705) 924-9222, www.thebridgehospice.com. This is an organization Bruce admired and supported.

For online condolences, please visit www.etouch.ca






Guestbook 

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Beverley Slopen (Friend and literary agent)

Entered November 21, 2018 from Toronto

I enjoyed Bruce’s humour, erudition and sweetness. With condolences to his family.

Janice Carlson (friend of Bruce's daughter Kathleen)

Entered November 21, 2018 from Victoria

I have such fond memories of him: his wry sense of humour, his kindness, and his sharp wit. So sorry for the loss of this truly wonderful man.

Janice Carlson

Katherine Dowd (Friend of daughter Kathleen)

Entered November 21, 2018 from Guelph

I remember your dad in my teen years as a very nice man. I had no idea at the time that he was so accomplished. You must be extremely proud of him and I’m sure will miss him very much. I hope that you and your family can comfort each other during this sad time.
Katherine Dowd

Laurie Rodgers (Friend of the family)

Entered November 21, 2018 from Toronto

He was a gentle kind man. He and his wife always encouraged all of Kath’s friends to come into their home. I had the pleasure of knowing him for over 50 years. Good memories on Ridley Blvd. will live on in my heart. Hugs to you Kath and Bruce and your families 💕
Laurie (King) Rodgers

Robin MacKenzie (former daughter-in-law, mother of Katie and Tom Powe)

Entered November 22, 2018 from Brighton

A glass of wine. A giggle. A smoke. I remember. He was so fundamentally kind. And mischievous. I remember. Joy. Welcome. Wit. Indelible. After decades. I remember. Goodnight Bappo.

Photos 

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