Obituary of Bruce McGibbon
McGibbon, D. Bruce, Colonel (Retired), ndc, PEng, SBStJ, CD - It is with profound sadness that the family of Donald Bruce McGibbon announce his passing on June 12, 2023 in his 83rd year at Providence Care Hospital. Bruce was predeceased by his parents Robert “Bob” and Mary “May” E. McGibbon (nee Lunam), and his siblings Sheena Davidson (Park) and Brian. He was the beloved husband and best friend to Doreen (nee Graham) for 58 years. He was the cherished father to James McGibbon (Rhonda) and Brenda Lammi (Thomas) and grandfather to Zach, Garrett, Bobbie, Travis, and Ayla. His grandchildren were his pride and joy.
Bruce had a long and distinguished career in the Canadian Armed Forces specializing as an artillery man, field soldier, instructor, missile man, engineer, and a staff officer. He is a graduate from Lisgar Collegiate, Ottawa and the Royal Military College, Kingston in electrical engineering. Bruce completed his graduate studies in space sciences with the US Army Air Defense School in Fort Bliss, Texas, as well as military science and technology at the Royal Military School of Science in the UK. He was a graduate and faculty member of the National Defense College in Kingston, Ontario where he taught strategic planning for Canada. Bruce’s career highlight was commanding 1 RCHA in Lahr, Germany. He was incredibly passionate and dedicated to serving Canada.
Following his military career, he was a successful and sought after program manager and director, including time at Bombardier Aerospace and Canadair where he was responsible for long-range drone and helicopter programs.
In retirement he served on various boards where he played an active role in supporting contemporary engineering activities, but his special pride was mentoring and coaching emerging leaders.
Bruce’s main hobby was golf. He spent his entire golfing career attempting to approach Doreen’s skill level, with mixed results. To address this problem, Bruce initiated an ongoing equipment renewal process. Unfortunately, the equipment never bridged the gap.
Cremation has been entrusted to James Reid Funeral Home, Kingston. Bruce will be laid to rest in Beechwood Cemetery, Ottawa at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to Canadian Cancer Society in Bruce’s honour.
