Justin Bieber is deeply mourning the loss of his beloved maternal grandfather, Bruce Dale, who has sadly passed away.
On Saturday, April 26, the 31-year-old pop sensation took to social media to share a heartfelt and emotional tribute honoring his late grandfather, who died on April 24 at Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth, as reported in an obituary from W.G. Young Funeral Home in Stratford, Ontario. Bruce Dale lived to the age of 80, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love.
“Papa, I always took all your money, lol,” Bieber reminisced on Instagram, accompanying his words with a nostalgic throwback photo featuring him and his grandfather. “I remember you specifically telling me how grandma gave you an allowance of for the WEEK! I would always manage to persuade you to spend it on snacks at the hockey game on Friday nights, creating memories that I will treasure forever.”
The “Sorry” singer went on to fondly recall the delightful moments they enjoyed together, illustrating their special bond through shared experiences and laughter. It was through these small yet meaningful interactions that their relationship blossomed into something truly special.
“Reluctantly, you always gave in to my requests. Corn nuts, Skittles, gumballs, Chuck-a-Puck, slush puppies … Shout out to the junior B referees Beatty, Fagon, and Flanagan, lmfao,” he wrote, illustrating the joyful times spent together at games and the playful banter that characterized their relationship.
Bieber fondly remembered his grandfather’s enthusiastic and spirited presence during hockey games, sharing, “My grandpa wasn’t shy in letting the referees know whenever they were making poor calls. He had a way of engaging with the game that made it all the more exciting.”
“I can’t wait to see you again in heaven,” he continued with heartfelt emotion. “Until then, I know you are watching over us, probably still heckling Beatty or Fagon for missing that cross-check call in the corner, lmfao.” His words reflect a deep longing and a belief in the enduring connection they share, transcending even death.
The “Baby” hitmaker concluded his touching tribute by expressing, “I will miss you. I will ache. And I’ll sit and let myself remember all of the wonderful times we’ve shared.” These poignant words encapsulate the profound sense of loss and the beautiful memories that will forever be etched in his heart.
Bruce Dale, the father of Bieber’s mother, Pattie Mallette, was a staunch supporter of his grandson’s illustrious career. He made a memorable appearance in Bieber’s 2011 documentary, Never Say Never, and fondly shared memories during a 2018 interview at the Stratford Perth Museum, which proudly featured an exhibit dedicated to the pop star.
Alongside Justin, Dale’s obituary also mentioned the singer’s wife, Hailey, their son Jack Blues, as well as Dale’s other children and his wife, Diane, highlighting the family’s close-knit relationships and the impact Bruce had on their lives.
It is worth noting that Bieber’s paternal grandfather, George Bieber, also passed away in 2021, as reported by TMZ, adding another layer of loss for the family during this difficult time.
See Bieber’s heartfelt and emotional tribute to his grandfather Bruce on Instagram here.
