Bruce Paulauskas

Bruce Paulauskas

Bruce Paulauskas passed away peacefully at 74 on July 19, 2024 with the assistance of MAID & with Ruth, his wife & best friend of 35 years, by his side.

Born Dec. 8th, 1949 in Montreal to Paul Paulauskas and Sonia Kolosow, Bruce lived his childhood in St. Jean Sur Richelieu, graduating in 1968 from St. John’s High School.  He moved to Montreal to study at Concordia University and pursue his passion for downhill skiing and driving around in sports cars, among them a mini Spitfire of which he was a proud owner.

Bruce also worked many hours over several years as a custom officer at the Blackpool Border Crossing near Champlain, New York.  This served him well when he moved to Ottawa and was able to pursue a career with Immigration Canada.

Bruce’s lifestyle changed dramatically for the better in the late 80’s when he met and married Ruth Sutcliffe.  He also became a frequent world traveller with job postings in Moscow, Beirut, Brazil and South Africa to name a few.  He would always come back to Appleton by the Mississippi where Ruth and Bruce bought their first home.

Retirement in Carleton Place found Bruce replacing his ski boots with tennis shoes, which he wore out once a year so much did he play.  He also continued driving around, this time in a van as a volunteer driver for the food bank.

Although Bruce made many acquaintances worldwide, his best friends were close to home, including Rob, Nicola & the “Fam Jam”, Chris B., among many others.

Bruce and his family wish to express much gratitude to the health care team for the care given right to the end.

In addition to Ruth, Bruce is survived by his sisters, Stephanie Paulauskas (Susanne), Paula Bigatel (Mark) and Louise Paulauskas.  Ruth’s sisters and brothers-in-law, Jeannie and Duncan MacPhee, Anne and Stuart Craig & the nieces and nephews. He was a much loved brother-in-law and uncle.

Those who knew Bruce will miss his keen sense of humour, his gentle soul and generous spirit.

Donations to the Dementia Society in memory of Bruce would be appreciated.  

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