Bruce Waechter

Obituary

Bruce Henry Waechter, born March 20, 1941, in Walkerton, Ontario, son of Harry and Norma, passed away Friday, February 20, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bruce shared 59 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Barb, celebrating this milestone together this February.

He was the proud and devoted father of Debbie Waechter (Scott Thomas) of Aurora, Lisa Waechter of Burlington, and Kristin Waechter (Terrence Davies) of North Vancouver. Known affectionately as “Baki” to his grandsons, Robert Thomas (Jen Thomas) and Connor Thomas, he cherished every moment spent with them. He was also a proud and loving great-grandfather to Taytum Thomas.

Bruce is survived by his siblings Ken, Ray, Diane, and Dave. He was predeceased by his sister Marlene and brother Doug.

A graduate of the University of Windsor (BA), Bruce built a long and respected career with Ford of Canada in Oakville, Ontario, working in Labour Relations for over 40 years. While living in Burlington, he was a member of St. Paul’s Church Men’s Club and, for nearly 20 years, organized an annual week-long golf trip at Quail Heights that brought together more than 20 close friends.

After retiring, Bruce and Barb moved to Southampton, Ontario, where they spent more than 20 happy years enjoying community life and friendships.

Bruce immersed himself in the Southampton community. He was an active member of Rotary, proudly serving as President from 2009–2010, and was also involved with Probus. He enjoyed many seasons of curling and was a member of the Saugeen Golf Club.

Family was always at the center of Bruce’s life. He especially loved following his grandsons’ hockey schedules, rarely missing a game or tournament — even travelling to Finland, Sweden, Italy, Germany, and Prague to cheer them on. Bruce and Barb also loved travelling in their fifth-wheel, spending winters in Florida and Texas, often surrounded by their children and grandchildren. One of his proudest moments was spending an entire playoff run in a St. Louis trailer park so he could watch his grandson win the Stanley Cup.

Bruce was loved by all who met him. His warmth, dedication to family, and commitment to community will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice in memory of Bruce.

Visitation at the Eagleson Funeral Home, Southampton, on Wednesday, February 25 from 2:00–5:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will take place at St. Patrick’s Church, Southampton, on Thursday, February 26 at 1:00 p.m. A social gathering to celebrate Bruce will follow at The Walker House, Southampton, from 2:30–5:30 p.m. You are welcome to attend both gatherings or to the one of your preference.

Hotel accommodations are available at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Port Elgin.