Obituary of Reverend R. Bruce Scott

Reverend B. R. Bruce Scott of Guelph (formerly of Dorchester), passed away at Guelph General Hospital on December 22, 2023, in his 96th year. Beloved husband of Lois (nee Carlisle). Dear father of Janet Scott (spouse of the late Kim Nixon) of Guelph, Leslie Buehner (husband John) of Cambridge and David Scott of West Palm Beach, Florida. Predeceased by his siblings and their spouses Robert Scott (Phyllis), Sandy Scott (Marie), Betty Robinson (Wells), Fran Clark (Bill) and John Scott (Rosemary/Monique). Fondly remembered by many generations of nieces and nephews. Starting in 1956, Bruce steadfastly served as a United Church minister over several pastoral charges spanning over fifty years. He began his ministry in Lynn Lake, Manitoba where he served for three years. He returned to Toronto after being called to serve as Associate Minister at Lawrence Park Community Church. A four-year tenure followed with a three-point charge in Brechin, Ontario. Bruce returned once again to Toronto serving initially at Birchmount Sheppard United Church which later amalgamated with Knox United Church where he served as Associate Minister for a period of ten years. During this time, he was instrumental in launching the Agincourt Community Services Association (ACSA) – a community outreach organization to assist people in need – which still thrives today. The Festival City – Stratford, Ontario – was Bruce’s next destination where he served for 13 years at St. John’s United Church. One of the highlights of his ministry while there was travelling to Haiti with Lois and a dedicated group of parishioners to build homes for Habitat for Humanity. From Stratford, Bruce moved to Dorchester, Ontario to serve as minister at a two-point charge – Dorchester United Church and Crumlin United Church. In 2006, Bruce celebrated fifty years in the ministry capping off decades of dedicated service. His ministry continued after retirement at Dundas Street United Church, London and Bryanston United Church, Ilderton where he provided interim ministerial support. Bruce was a prolific reader of Christian theology and keeping up-to-date on current trends, thinking, and approaches. He was known for his profound dedication to community service which he exemplified throughout his career. His love for family as well as his dedication and devotion to Lois was ever present. He enjoyed precious time spent with his family at the cottage on the shores of Georgian Bay. He was known for his positive outlook on life, words of wisdom and wonderful sense of humor. Bruce’s other passions were woodworking and photography. Many examples of both are held dear by his family. Friends and family will be received at the Dorchester United Church, 4100 Catherine Street, Dorchester (Friday, January 5, 2024 between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.) after which time the memorial service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Interment of cremated remains Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Toronto at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to either the Agincourt Community Services Association (ACSA) www.agincourtcommunityservices.com , Habitat for Humanity www.habitat.ca or to the United Church of Canada – Mission and Service www.united-church.ca Online condolences may be made at www.biemanfuneralhome.com (Bieman Funeral Home, 3970 Hamilton Road, Dorchester, ON N0L 1G2 - (519)-268-7672 - in charge of arrangements)