Gordon Bruce James RICE

RICE, Gordon Bruce James, CD August 17, 1930 - November 15, 2007 Peacefully, surrounded by his family at Starwood Extendicare Home after a long battle with Alzheimer's. Dearly loved father of Randolph, Deborah, Robert, Julianne and Tobin. Lovingly missed by grandchildren Cory, Gordon, Tiffany, Andrew, Melanie Jacob, Tara and Hannah, great-grandchild Ocean as well as his sister Joan. Predeceased by his parents Elsie and Gordon Rice and his loving wife Constance Vivian (nee Oliver). Bruce grew up in the Glebe area of Ottawa and at the age of nineteen joined the Canadian Army serving in the Royal Canadian Ordnance Corp for three years. In 1954, he joined the Royal Canadian Air force and trained as a clerk intelligence group 3Y achieving the rank of Corporal. Upon his retirement from the RCAF in 1964, he worked for Glengarry Transport out of Ottawa. In 1982, Dad's beloved wife of thirty-two years, Constance passed away leaving a deep void in his life. Despite his loss, Dad carried on and with his retirement from the workforce he directed his energies in helping the elderly, he cut grass, shoveled snow and gave them mobility. During his lifetime, Dad donated over one hundred pints of blood to the Red Cross. Dad enjoyed family, laughing, reading, animals, boxing, old films, drawing and walking. Dad is fondly remembered as a man who put his family first and never complained, he will be forever loved, missed and never forgotten in all our hearts. Our heartfelt thanks goes out to the staff of Starwood for their deep compassion and professionalism. Family and friends are invited to gather with the family on Monday, November 19, 2007 at St. Matthew's Anglican Church (in the Glebe) 130 Glebe Ave. from 10 am to 11 am, followed by a Memorial Service from 11 until 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Published in the Ottawa Citizen on 11/17/2007