Frederick Harold "Bruce" Welch

Frederick Harold “Bruce” Welch was born in Salmon Arm, February 2nd 1942 to Harold and Jean Welch. He was raised on a farm at Springbend corner near Grinrod BC. Along with his two brothers Ed and Roger, Bruce enjoyed being outside, living and working on the farm. This is where his love of building, repairing and tinkering with equipment first began. 

Bruce is survived by his brother Roger, loving wife of 60 years, Bette, Daughter Laurie (Brad), son Mike (Heather) and three granddaughters, Jessica, Kristen and Alexis. Family was very important to Bruce and he could often be overheard speaking proudly of his children and grandchildren’s accomplishments.

Bruce left home at 17 to attend SAIT in Calgary where he completed his certifications in both heavy duty mechanics and gas fitting. While in Calgary he met his life long love Bette and they were married in 1963. Two years later they started raising their two children Mike and Laurie. Bruce started working for Canadian Western Natural gas in 1967 and would work with them for the next 30 years. Bruce was known as a very hardworking, conscientious employee.

Bruce and Bette left Calgary and would call Strathmore and Airdrie Alberta home for the next 37 years. Upon retirement Bruce and Bette moved back to Salmon Arm. No matter where they lived Bruce and Bette shared many enjoyable adventures and formed life long friendships. Along the way, anyone that met Bruce would attest to his kind heart, dry sense of humor and willingness to help anyone in need without any thought of repayment.

Bruce was very active in his communities, volunteering with service organizations such as Lions and Rotary. Bruce was a man of faith and was active in churches throughout his life. In Salmon Arm the Joy Fellowship group of the Broadview Evangelical church provided him with friendships and active discussions.

Throughout his life, Bruce had a passion for woodworking. His projects ranged anywhere from a 16ft cedar strip canoe to intricate wood carvings. He loved photography and every year he would gather photos to make a family calendar.

Bruce faced many health care challenges over the past 4 years. He was always thankful to all of the health care practitioners that helped him along his journey.  Bastion place provided comfort and care for Bruce during his final days. Bruce was thankful that the staff not only looked after him, but made Bette feel welcomed and cared for during her daily visits. This meant so much to the entire family.

Bruce passed peacefully on May 23rd with his family at his side. A celebration of life was held at Bowers Funeral Home in Salmon Arm Thursday June 1st at 1 PM with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, a donation could be made to a charity of your choice in Bruce’s memory.