Club Founder Bruce Coleman 1913 - 2012

Bruce was born at LeRoy Saskatchewan. He started his commercial life as a grain buyer in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. He then became a salesman for Kelly Douglas, wholesale grocers and came to Nanaimo to manage their branch in 1952. He joined the Rotary Club of Nanaimo in 1952 and was elected president for the year 1968 - 69.

Bruce was well known for his passion for organizing new Rotary Clubs. First was the Ladysmith Club. Nanaimo North was second, in October, 1972 with Bruce as a charter member. He also helped in the founding of the clubs in Comox, Campbell River, Parksville, Parksville Daybreak and Nanaimo Daybreak.

Bruce was a staunch supporter of Rotary Foundation as evidenced by the fact that he was not only a multiple Paul Harris Fellow but had arranged for Paul Harris Fellowships for other family members. Bruce was a Rotary Foundation Benefactor and along with his wife Doris were major donors to Rotary Foundation.

He was named Rotarian of the Year 3 times between 1974 and 2002, a testament to his continued passion for service. It is no wonder he was known as "Mr Rotary". He had a record of perfect attendance for 58 years and vigorously encouraged other members to follow his example. Our club hosted a lunch at the Coast Bastion Inn in June 2011 to honour his many years of service to Rotary. The photo above was taken at this event.