Obituary of Bruce Donald Cole

Bruce Donald Cole, lovingly known as Bruce to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2024, in Strathmore, Alberta, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Born on April 28, 1956, in Edmonton, Alberta, Bruce's life was characterized by his unwavering dedication to his family and his utter enjoyment and interest in his work.

Bruce's journey began in Edmonton, but his heart found its home in Strathmore, where he holed up for the last 15 years after retirement to escape the big city of Calgary.  His enduring love story with his stunning wife of 37 years, Judy Cole (O'Byrne), was a testament to their unwavering partnership and mutual adoration. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, support, and deep affection.

Family was the cornerstone of Bruce's world. He was a cherished brother to Deb Berg, her husband Bjorn, and a beloved uncle to their children Amanda and Jordan (Danielle). His extended family includes his brother-in-law Marty O'Byrne, his wife MaryAnne, and their children; Ryan (along with his wife Carla), Brendan, and Katie (her partner Patrick) and their little ones Logan, Nolan, and Finley. Bruce also held a special place in the hearts of his brother-in-law Tim O'Byrne, his wife Christine, and their son Mark.

Bruce was predeceased by his father, Donald Cole, his mother, Elizabeth Cole (Kowalchuk), and his mother-in-law, Clara O'Byrne (Ruschkowski). Incidentally, these three got along famously, perhaps because they were relieved that their two children had found each other and were off the streets.  Bruce saw the food potential right away with the Kowalchuk-Ruschkowski combo and he wasn’t wrong. 

Professionally, Bruce's voice became a familiar presence in many households during his time as a DJ with a local radio station in Calgary. This was a very exciting time in his early life and he enjoyed it immensely.  In 1979, Bruce embarked on a career that would define much of his life's work, joining the Calgary Police Service. His dedication to serving and protecting the community was evident throughout his 29-year tenure until his retirement in 2008.

Beyond his work, Bruce was a survivor of this brain tumour for 24 years, as it changed his path many times. Each time he adapted, learned and moved forward.  Bruce's life reflected that dedication in the values he held dear: love, laughter and eating dessert first. His warm smile, generous heart, and spirited sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we say goodbye to Bruce, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey well-traveled, and a legacy that will continue to resonate within the hearts of those he touched.

Bruce Cole will be remembered not for how he died, but for how he lived—a life full of purpose, connection, and unwavering love.

The family wishes to convey their sincere gratitude to Bayshore Home Care for their wonderful attention to Bruce over the past 10 years.  This includes everyone but especially Jacki, Carrie, Cerelita and Tammy Foy.  We would also like to thank Dr. M. O’Brien and the nurses at Strathmore Hospital Acute Care who guided Bruce through his last hours with quiet calm and gentle hands.

There will be no funeral service at Bruce’s request.  Cremation to take place in Strathmore, Alberta and a family Celebration of Life will be held later this year. 

Anyone wishing to make a donation in Bruce’s name might consider the Strathmore Happy Cat Sanctuary at www.happycatsanctuary.net.  We adopted our two devil-childs from here and they have brought us several moments of joy over the years, when we weren’t scrambling on Amazon to meet their list of demands or dealing with their lawyers.