Bruce Forbes

Bruce Edward Forbes

Bruce Edward Forbes passed away peacefully on January 3, 2021 at the age of 85 years.

He is survived by his wife Marlene; daughter Sandra (Bernhard); grandchildren Amanda, Bradly (Caitlyn), Jessica, Laura (Randy), Donald, James, and Maria; great-granddaughter, Mya; sisters-in-law Christine (Victor) Dann, Margaret Kernested, Hazel Williams and numerous nieces and nephews. Bruce was predeceased by his son Douglas, daughter Diane, parents Edward and Elizabeth (Taylor) Forbes, and brother Ronald.

Bruce was born and raised in Oak Bluff and enjoyed the country life.  He married Marlene Thorlakson on April 20, 1963.  They bought a small house on a two-acre lot in Oak Bluff and raised their family there. When the family outgrew the small house, they built a new one on that property. They lived there for more than 50 years until they moved to a condo in Gimli in 2015.

He was an avid gardener and especially enjoyed tending to his tomatoes; which he always planted way too many of. He was also a skilled woodworker and created many beautiful things which he would give away to friends and family. He was known for his generosity and willingness to always help out when needed.

Bruce began his career with the RM of Macdonald and became a dragline operator.  Following that, he and Raymond Jensen formed a business partnership for several years until they each branched out on their own. From then on, he was the owner/operator of Bruce Forbes Excavating until his retirement.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date, when it is safe to do so. The family would like to thank all the Home Care workers he had over the years. Memorial donations can be made to Diabetes Canada or to the Oak Bluff Cemetery Maintenance Fund payable to RM of Macdonald and mailed to Box 51 Oak Bluff, MB R0G 1N0.

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