Bruce Niwa
Bruce Niwa, 1960 ~ 2024
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Bruce Patrick Niwa wish to announce his passing on Monday, January 8th, 2023.
He leaves behind his brothers, Greg (Doris), Rod, Darold (Lynn), Mick (Bernice), and Gord (Laurie); special nieces and nephews, Lindsay (Kris), Katie, Kendra (Brett), Tyson, Braden, Josh, and Jake. He also leaves behind his beloved great nephew and nieces, Parker, Maddy, and Luna and special family members, Janice Niwa and Sydney Kincaid. He was predeceased by his parents, Dennis and Marie and nephew, Brandon.
Bruce was born September 5, 1960, in Oyen and raised in Acadia Valley. As the story goes, he was a colicky baby but they think it was just to make sure everyone knew he was there having to already compete with four older brothers. However, Mary always said he was the happiest kid and never failed to cheer you up even on bad days. Life was never dull growing up on the farm with six boys. Never letting school get in the way of his education, Bruce left the farm and tried his luck working as a farm hand before joining his brother, Greg, in the crane business in 1979. This is where Bruce found his passion. He was an excellent crane operator and a hard worker who loved his job very much.
Bruce was a great storyteller and a jokester. His sarcasm was unmatched and he had one of the greatest laughs. His memory was outstanding and for many in the family, he was the go to for family history.
While he had no children of his own, Uncle Bruce was a favourite of his nieces and nephews as well as his great-nephew and nieces. He was great with little ones and always made them feel so special. It was during the times he spent with them when you really got to witness Bruce’s tender heart.
Forced into retirement early due to health, Bruce filled his time with countless card games and puzzles with the residents of Masterpiece and his friends. He loved nothing more than watching a good ball game on tv, especially when the Blue Jays were playing.
The Niwa family would like to thank the staff at Masterpiece and HealthWorx as well as all the other healthcare staff who have cared for Bruce over the years. He didn’t always make it easy but your care was so appreciated and made a big impact.
Vigil Prayers will be recited at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 - 13 Street SW, Medicine Hat on January 19, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish, 1451 Strachan Road SE, Medicine Hat on January 20, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Father Iqbal Khurshid celebrant.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to celebrate Bruce’s life are encouraged to donate to the Niwa Family Fund c/o the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta (430 - 6th Ave SE #104, Medicine Hat, AB, T1A 2S8 or online via https://cfsea.ca. Donations support the greatest needs in the community. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting our website at www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, Crematorium & Reception Facility, Medicine Hat, Alberta. Telephone: 1-403-527-6455 or Tollfree: 1-877-528-6455