Edward Bruce Newell

Edward Bruce Newell

Edward Bruce Newell of Voglers Cove passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on October 29th, 2025, at the age of 74.

Bruce was predeceased by his father, Robert Newell of Voglers Cove; his mother, Florena Newell of Pine Grove; and his sister, Karen Newell of Mahone Bay.

He is survived by his daughters:

Sarah Newell (Mitchell Woodworth) and their children Whitney and Marissa Whynacht, Paidra and Chayten Meisner-Woodworth of Chelsea;

Angela (Jason) Robinson and their children Owen, Orion, and Ostin of Italy Cross;

Alexa (Rodney) Whynot and their children Briella and Paislyn of Laconia.

He is also survived by his nephew Matthew (Karen) Roberts and their children Jack, Zander, and Madelyn of Bridgewater—Bruce considered Matthew like a son. His siblings: Brian (Jane) Newell of Voglers Cove; Isabel Newell (Matthew Wile) of Pine Grove; and Rosemary (Peter) Burgess of Port Mouton. He is also lovingly remembered by his close friend, Heather Nauss of Mill Village.

Bruce grew up in Voglers Cove, where his family owned R.E. Newell Fisheries. He spent his childhood learning the value of hard work and the foundations of running a business.

He had a lifelong passion for muscle cars and could often be found deep in conversation about them. He owned several throughout his young adulthood and loved the power and speed they offered. He often said he wished he had never sold his Dodge Super Bee—back then, he believed cars would only keep getting better.

Bruce married Susan Oickle of Bridgewater, and together they built a home in Voglers Cove, where they raised three daughters. They enjoyed keeping horses, and Bruce’s favourite was a horse named Top Gun—perhaps because he reminded Bruce of himself: stubborn and free-spirited.

Bruce also loved racing his modified Bronco and frequently entered 4x4 mud rallies. His children have fond memories of driving in it from Broad Cove to Green Bay, where roads were merely suggestions to him.

While Bruce worked hard at the family business, he also valued education. He was known for his brilliant mind and his knack for inventing machines and devices that made life and work more efficient. After the fish plant closed, Bruce dedicated himself to developing the Ice House in Voglers Cove, transforming it into a facility capable of trucking ice to boats across Nova Scotia. He also invested in a new venture—an aquaculture business cultivating dulse and abalone. Bruce was adventurous and thrived on challenges.

In his later years, Bruce met Heather, and together they shared a love of trucking, exploring new places, dining out, and visiting beaches.

Bruce had a kind heart and was always the first to forgive. He saw the good in all things and people, and his positive outlook on life was infectious. He often encouraged others to “Challenge yourself,” believing that anything was possible if you put your mind to it.

Bruce had a unique way of thinking outside the box and accomplished many great things throughout his life. He was deeply loved and touched countless lives, and we are so proud of him for that.

Bruce loved to volunteer his time at the Community Hall, and donations in Bruce’s memory can be made to the Voglers Cove Community Hall and Maggie’s Playground. Etransfer: vcch1961@gmail.com, or by cheque made out to the Hall and mailed to Rosemary Rinehardt 8738 Hwy 331, Voglers Cove B0J 2H0.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Voglers Cove Hall on Saturday, November 29th, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m