Vale Bruce Ward

Bruce Ward will be missed by many in the community. (supplied)

Ocean Grove and District Men’s Shed instigator Bruce Ward has passed away, leaving a huge gap in the local community.

Bruce played a pivotal role as coordinator of the steering group that established the Ocean Grove and District Men’s Shed in 2009.

Bruce’s involvement as the shed’s coordinator and secretary continued until he became seriously ill earlier this year.

His leadership provided a strong and clear direction from its foundation to the present time.

Bruce will be sadly missed by members of the shed. Bruce, and five other shed members, were recently awarded life membership plaques for their service.

Bruce also gave to many others in the community as a volunteer and will be missed.

Bruce was a member of Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club and was an avid supporter of both R&R in Victoria and at a national level. He was treasurer of OGSLSC and was 2004/05 recipient of the Graeme Long Medal for Life Saving Victoria Volunteer of the Year and a 2008 recipient of the inaugural Bob Woodger Trophy for R&R Official of the meet at the Australian Championships in Perth.

A memorial to celebrate Bruce’s life was held at the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club on Monday June 3.