Dorothy Bernice Bruce

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Dorothy Bruce from Qualicum Beach - originally from Campbell River. She passed away peacefully at NRGH with family by her side on January 11th 2026. We extend our appreciation and gratefulness to the palliative care team who took amazing care of her in her last day of life.

Dorothy was born in Ottawa Ontario where she lived for years and met her one and only, Ernie. From there they moved to Toronto and raised their three children Debbie, Jeffery, and Beverley. They would later move to Haliburton, where they built a home, eventually sold it, and made the move out to BC. Dorothy was the manager at BMO before her opportunity to become part of the team at the then called Ocean Grove Esso. She worked there for Bill and Donna Eveson for about 30 years until she retired due to health issues.

Dorothy was known as the ultimate fighter, she lived by her motto: “You got to be tough to be in our gang”. She fought hard and beat breast cancer, suffered a heart attack, stroke, a broken hip and arm, and COPD — but not once did her strength waver. She met every challenge with a defiant smile that never faded. To her, toughness wasn’t just about survival, it was about keeping a joyful heart for the people she loved the most. Even after all that she faced, she made sure to enjoy her beer (or no-beer) and spend time sitting outside with her family and friends taking in the sweet smell of her garden and favourite flower - lilies.

Dorothy was predeceased by her husband Ernie Bruce, and sister Simone Grieken. She leaves behind her children Debbie, Jeffery (Sherri), and Beverley. Her baby sister Linda (Derrick). Grandchildren Alex (Kelsey), Billy (Taryn), Amanda (Bob), Tara (Dru), Tayler, Michael, and Ferrin. Great grandkids Quaid, Sean, Liam, Jackson, and Amira. As well as her best friend Anita. Although the world knew her as Dorothy, to her grandkids she was known as “Grandma the Great” and “Nana”.

Dorothy was the happiest and most proud amongst her gang the family she always looked forward to visiting — and she would never miss getting her beloved hugs from them all. She leaves behind a legacy of true grit and a family that will always be proud to have known her and be a part of that gang. We will forever miss her laughter, sense of humour, unconditional love, and her larger then life heart.

We love you, and we will always miss you. It is with grace and honour, we say goodbye!

Celebration of Life will be held on May 9th 2026 @ 2pm at 397 Parkway Road, Campbell River. For Dorothy’s celebration of life we ask if you could wear a lily in the colour of your choice, in honour of her life.

In her legacy, if you are able, please donate to finding a cure for COPD