CORKUM

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that the family of Bruce Fred Corkum, 78, of Oakhill, announces his passing on September 20, 2026, at South Shore Regional Hospital, Bridgewater.

Bruce was born in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, on March 10, 1948, to Fred and Hazel Corkum. He grew up in First South and Centre, where he attended the one-room Centre School and later the new Centre Consolidated School. He began his working life at the age of 15 with Quality Poultry, later working in the maintenance department at Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital. In 1976, Bruce began a 30-year career with Michelin Tire Canada in Bridgewater, and the family made their home in Oakhill.

While working at Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital, Bruce met and fell in love with Judy. They were married in Williamsdale, Nova Scotia, on June 19, 1971, and began their life together in Lunenburg, where their two daughters, Melissa and Peggy, were born. His girls were the light of his life, and he was endlessly proud of them. As a family, they spent summers camping and making wonderful memories, later enjoying travel to Alaska, Europe, where Bruce developed a special love for Switzerland, and later to Kenya and South Africa. He and Judy also treasured road trips, including memorable journeys to Washington, D.C., and New Orleans, with a special stop at Graceland, the home of his idol, Elvis Presley.

Bruce loved the outdoors. Whether camping, fishing, hunting with his grandfather, cycling back roads with Judy, sitting quietly on the deck listening to the birds and watching the squirrels, or strolling through the woods, he found peace and joy in nature. He also enjoyed photography and travel, and in retirement generously gave his time helping friends with their Christmas tree business. After retiring, he joined the Oakhill Fire Auxiliary and greatly enjoyed the camaraderie of volunteering his time at catering and fundraising events until COVID brought those gatherings to an end.

Bruce loved watching M*A*S*H and collected the entire series so he could enjoy it again and again. He was also a devoted fan of Elvis and his music, owning almost every record Elvis recorded. These simple pleasures, along with time spent with family and friends, reflected the warmth, humour, and loyalty that those who knew him will remember so fondly.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Judy (Purdy); daughters, Melissa Corkum of Islamabad, Pakistan and Peggy (Tim) Szumlanski of Milton, Ontario; grandsons, Avery and Mason; brother, Robert Corkum of Dartmouth, nieces, Krista (Odin) and Kelley (Alex); cousin, Catherine Smith of Lunenburg and his extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, Fred and Hazel Corkum; and sister-in-law, Bernice Corkum.

Bruce’s family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to the many doctors, nurses, hospital staff, and VON nurses who provided such compassionate care over the past 10 years. Their kindness and support meant so much during an extremely difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to VON Lunenburg County, the Oncology Department at South Shore Regional Hospital, Feed Nova Scotia, or a charity of your choice.

Bruce received many blood and platelet transfusions throughout his battle with Leukemia, and with every transfusion he was grateful to the donors who made them possible. Please consider donating blood if you are able.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Dana L. Sweeny Funeral Home, 11213 Hwy 3, Lunenburg and from where a celebration of Bruce's life was held on Monday, September 28 at 1:00 pm with Rev. Neil McEwen officiating.