Lister, Bruce Duff

It is with profound sadness and immense gratitude for a life extraordinarily well-lived that the family of Bruce Duff Lister announces his gentle passing in Peterborough on October 19, 2026, at the age of 89.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Stephen, Graham, Jane and Matthew; his daughters-in-law, Dr. Margaret “Molly” Rundle (Stephen) and Suzy Lister (Matthew); his grandchildren Jon (Nicole Manion), Ben (Sydney), Adam, Emily, Anna and Zoe; and his great-grandchildren, Kalen and James. He was predeceased by his beloved wives, Marilyn (nee Jeckell) and Goodith Heeney, and his brother Drummond. He will be dearly missed by Goodith’s children, Michael, Annie, Tim and Matthew; by the extended Lister family; and by the many friends whose lives he enriched.

Bruce lived a life rich in purpose, accomplishment, friendship and, above all, love. He believed deeply in family, education, integrity, public service and finding joy in the world around him. Education was central to Bruce’s upbringing and philosophy. An accomplished scholarship student at Eltham College, England and Upper Canada College, he attended Trinity College at the University of Toronto, where he served as Head of College and graduated with distinction in economics and political science. Later, he accepted a Nuffield fellowship at the London School of Economics. A voracious reader and lifelong learner, he believed education opened doors and expanded horizons. He passed that conviction on to his four children, whose curiosity, independence and determination he admired.

Bruce also distinguished himself through a long career in public service. He devoted much of his professional life to the federal Department of Finance, including its Inter-governmental Division, earning the respect of colleagues for his intellect, judgment and unwavering principles. Upon his retirement, the Honourable Michael Wilson, former federal Minister of Finance, described him as “the conscience of the Department of Finance” — a tribute to Bruce’s integrity and belief that doing what was right mattered more than doing what was expedient.

Yet Bruce’s greatest contribution was to his family. Born in Orpington, Kent, in the UK, Bruce experienced an uprooted childhood marked by boarding school, multiple evacuations during WW II and the absence of close parental relationships. He resolved that his own children would grow up differently. Together with Marilyn, he created a home defined by warmth, stability, encouragement, intellectual curiosity and unconditional support. Bruce was the father who was always there. At basketball games, ski races, volleyball matches and baseball games, he could be found enthusiastically cheering on his children. He celebrated their accomplishments, encouraged their ambitions and taught them, by example, the importance of kindness, perseverance and character.

Bruce had a wonderful sense of humour and an irrepressible love of music. He often broke into song and delighted in composing amusing lyrics for birthdays and other special occasions. His wit and mischievous spirit brought laughter to generations of family and friends. He was equally at home in a garden. At Sawmill Road and Beaverlost in the Gatineau Hills of Quebec, and, later, in Peterborough, he took great pleasure in discovering, planting and nurturing flowers, shrubs and trees, and in finding just the right rocks to complete a landscape.

Bruce was blessed with two extraordinary partnerships. His 45-year marriage to Marilyn was the foundation of the loving family they built together. After her passing, he found happiness again with Goodith, whose warmth, vitality and companionship brought renewed joy and adventure to his life. At their wedding, his son Stephen observed that finding a soulmate once is extraordinary, but finding one twice is a miracle. Bruce was fortunate enough to experience that miracle.

In later life, Bruce embraced being Grandad with delight. He was a loving and encouraging presence to his grandchildren, a source of stories, wisdom, laughter and adventure. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Kalen (son of Emily Lister); and James (Jon Lister and Nicole Manion). At the beach, he defended his grandchildren against King Neptune’s waves and taught them the exhilarating art of bodysurfing. His affection for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren reflected a capacity for love that continued to grow throughout his life.

Bruce’s friendships were equally important to him, meeting regularly with his UCC and Trinity friends throughout his life, and the close family cottage community at Beaverlost. Thoughtful and generous with his time, he served food to homeless community members at St. John’s church in Peterborough, then joyfully did the dishes while serenading the staff.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Princess Gardens and to Bruce’s PSW team — Sasha,  Nathalie, Nike, Tru, Collins and Priya — where Bruce and Goodith spent their final years together. Their kindness, care and compassion brought comfort and dignity to them both and will always be remembered with gratitude.

Bruce leaves a legacy of lives made better. He taught his family that a meaningful life is measured by the love one gives, the people one helps, the knowledge one shares, the principles one upholds and the joy one finds along the way. He lived those values every day.

Dad, we love you with all our hearts. We will miss your laughter, your songs, your wisdom and your unfailing encouragement. Most of all, we will miss you. Your legacy lives on in all of us, and we will carry it forward with love and gratitude.

Details of a celebration of Bruce’s life will be announced by the family.

 Online condolences may be made at www.duffusfuneral home.com

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