Matthews, Bruce – July 25, 1949 – May 13, 2017

Matthews, Bruce – On the morning of Saturday May 13, 2017, at Health Sciences North, Sudbury, ON., my forever love cinched up for the last time making his way on hoof beats to heaven. A TRUE HERO, gets out of bed every morning and goes about life’s daily tasks unnoticed, unassuming, and unsung. A TRUE HERO, takes on responsibility, gives out credit, and always looks for a way to solve the problem. A TRUE HERO, speaks kindly, acts fairly, endures patiently, enjoys easily, and facing every day with simple strength. A TRUE HERO, persists in the things that matter. Bruce embodied these attributes and exhibited great strength and courage throughout his journey, he taught us how to cowboy up!! Soulmate, inseparable partner and best friend to his girl, Laurie (Vaillancourt) of Hanmer, Predeceased by parents Helen and Lloyd Matthews, brother to Carol Ward (husband Peter). Proud and loving father to his sons Shawn (Julie), Kevin (Kristin), and their mother Jeanne, Laurie’s children Leigh Ann (Geoff), Michael (Tiffany). Proud and loving Grandpa Bruce and Poppa to his grandchildren, MacKenzie, Drake, Maddox, Jordin and Ryann. He championed their achievements and found great pleasure in all their sports and accomplishments. Lovingly remembered by Fay & Bob White and extended family, Shirley Hull, and as a favourite uncle to many nieces and nephews. Bruce was a very kind hearted and generous man, with a strong work ethic who took great pride in all his endeavours both in business and pleasure. His passion for planes, boats, cars, especially Shelby Cobra’s, and his love of horses was a shared interest with those closest to him. He thoroughly enjoyed time spent with Laurie on his boat on Lake Wahnapitae with family, and time at the barn with Ben and Otie and the community of horse people he had known for years. He was employed for several years with Northern Bulk Logistics as a Site Supervisor. Many thanks to his employers Glenn and Laurel Fuller for their compassion during Bruce’s illness and many thanks to staff. On behalf of Bruce and myself, I would like to acknowledge the exceptional care that was given to Bruce by his medical team: Dr. Bowen, primary nurse Suzanne Richard, Dr. Cano, Dr. Singh & staff, 4th Floor North Tower nursing staff and PSW’s, Dr. Pianezza and Mary Ann, Dr. Boudreau and Dr. Abdul Hussein and staff. Your expertise, compassion and care were very much appreciated at all times. Special thanks to Jen Matthews, Shelley Deslaurier-Matthews & Aleisha Santerre for their many acts of kindness. Donations to the Northern Cancer Foundation or Maison McCulloch Hospice would be greatly appreciated; or pay if forward with a simple act of kindness to something or someone in need as Bruce had done so many times throughout his lifetime. In keeping with Bruce’s wishes there will be no visitation or service. My heart beats for you my love, until we meet again…..Good Night Cowboy Good Night xo.