THUNDER BAY — A former long-time publisher of the Thunder Bay Chronicle-Journal has passed away.
According to a message posted by Harbourview Funeral Centre, the family of Colin James Bruce announced that he died Tuesday morning at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.
He was 73 years old.
Bruce spent 44 years in the newspaper business before retiring in 2014.
He began his career as a copy-boy at the Belleville Intelligencer and eventually became managing editor at the Cornwall Standard-Freeholder and the Sarnia Observer.
He subsequently served as publisher of the newspapers in Kirkland Lake and Orillia before taking the same position in Thunder Bay in 1994.
Bruce was also known for longstanding community service, including leadership roles on the boards of the United Way and Lakehead University, as well as service with numerous other local organizations.
The Chronicle-Journal issued a statement Tuesday evening saying it was saddened to hear of his passing.
"Colin provided strong leadership during challenging times in the newspaper industry, right up until his retirement in 2014," said publisher Hilda Caverly. "Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time."
Managing editor Greg Giddens added that although Bruce started out in a newsroom, he was passionate about the paper being more than a provider of news.
"He saw it as vital that the newspaper be a good corporate citizen. This was reflected in the time and support he gave to Rotary, the United Way, Chamber of Commerce and countless other groups and efforts that supported the betterment of the community."
Funeral arrangements are pending.
