Canon Trevor Denley remembers Bruce McKay, who died last Friday aged 74.Bruce McKay 1941 - 2016
Bruce will be remembered as a man with a servant heart and love of the Gospel.
A Bristolian through-and-through - he was born in East Bristol, and attended All Saints School, Clifton he was also fiercely proud of his Scottish ancestry, and wore his kilt at every opportunity. At an early age he learned good practical skills, helping his father with car maintenance in his garage business.
Bruce studied to become an Industrial Chemist working initially for E S & A Robinson (which later became DRG) and finally becoming technical director of a printing ink company - Mirage Inks - which he helped establish. His skill and knowledge was such that, even after retiring, he was regularly asked to lecture on printing and inks.
Bruce was a committed Christian. He demonstrated his serving heart throughout his life - initially at Pip n Jay where, over a period of 45 years, he served at various times as church warden and treasurer and, for many years, as an elder in Canon Malcolm Widdecombes team. He led the Tower Restoration project a few years ago, something in which he took great pride. With his wife Sheila, he was at the heart of the ministry team there.
In later years, he joined St Aidan with St George, his local parish church, where he was also a great influence. Here his practical skills, allied to huge enthusiasm, were again called upon and he led a variety of projects to enhance the mission and outreach of the church.
Bruce was also a well-known figure in the Diocese and the City Deanery, serving on Bishops Council, Diocesan Synod, Mission and Pastoral Committee, Deanery Leadership Team and, latterly, the DAC. His wisdom and common sense, built-up over many years in Christian life, was always appreciated.
He loved his family greatly and thoroughly enjoyed time spent with his wife of more than 50 years, Sheila, his daughter Sarah, son Fraser and daughter-in-law Dawn; they would often spend their holidays together.
He had many interests but his main hobby was building and flying model aircraft, and he was an enthusiastic member of Woodspring Wings Club where he was an instructor, examiner and Show Director for several years.
Bruce will be sadly missed by all with whom he had contact, and the hard work of his many years of ministry will continue to be evident for a long time to come.
Bruce's funeral will take place at Westerleigh Crematrorium on Thursday 23 June at 2pm. There will be a service of thanksgiving for Bruce's life at a later date.