Canadian singer Justin Bieber Justin Bieber and grandfather Bruce Dale arrive for YouTube Originals’ “Justin Bieber: Seasons” premiere at the Regency Bruin Theatre in Los Angeles on January 27, 2020.<span class="image-caption-credit"> (Photo by LISA O’CONNOR/AFP via Getty Images)</span>
Justin Bieber Mourns Grandfather Bruce Dale’s Passing: A Touching Tribute to Family Legacy
Key Points
- Bruce Dale passed away at age 80
- Justin shares emotional tribute on Instagram
- Close grandfather-grandson relationship documented over years
- Comes during challenging time for the pop star
Justin Bieber and grandfather Bruce Dale at the “Justin Bieber: Seasons” premiere in Los Angeles, January 27, 2020. (Photo by LISA O’CONNOR/AFP via Getty Images)
A Heartfelt Farewell
Pop icon Justin Bieber is mourning the loss of his beloved maternal grandfather, Bruce Dale, who passed away at the age of 80. The singer took to Instagram to share his grief and celebrate the special bond they shared throughout his life.
“Papa, I always took all ur money lol. I remember u specifically telling me, gramma gave u an allowance of 20 dollars for the WEEK!” Bieber recalled in his emotional tribute. “I would always convince you to spend on snacks at the hockey game on Friday nights. Reluctantly you always gave it to me. Corn nuts, skittles, gum balls, chuck a puck, slush puppies.”
Cherished Memories and Hockey Games
In his touching Instagram post, Bieber shared intimate memories of their time together, particularly their shared experiences at hockey games. The singer fondly remembered his grandfather’s passionate involvement in these games, including his memorable interactions with junior hockey referees Beatty, Fagon, and Flanagan.
Diane Dale, Justin Bieber, Pattie Mallette, and Bruce Dale at the “Justin Bieber’s Believe” premiere, December 18, 2013. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
A Special Bond Documented
The close relationship between Justin and Bruce has been well-documented throughout the years. In a particularly moving 2018 interview, Bruce demonstrated the depth of their connection when he became emotional discussing his grandson. “I don’t know,” he shared at the time. “It just happens. I can sit and talk with anybody about anything, but when it comes to talking about him, I just get emotional.”
Justin Bieber with grandparents Diane and Bruce Dale at the “Justin Bieber: Seasons” premiere, January 27, 2020. (Photo by LISA O’CONNOR/AFP via Getty Images)
Challenging Times and Personal Growth
This loss comes during a particularly challenging period for Justin, who has recently been in the spotlight for his interactions with paparazzi and public behavior. Despite suggestions to leave Los Angeles, the singer remains committed to his path:
“Everyone telling me to move from La,” he wrote on Instagram. “U think I’m gonna get bullied to leave where my influence is most needed? How can we make a change if we run away from the darkness?”
A Lasting Legacy
In his final words to his grandfather, Bieber wrote, “I can’t wait to see u again soon in heaven. Until then I know ur watching down probly still heckling Beatty or Fagon for missing that cross check call in the corner there… I will miss u. I will ache. And I’ll sit and let myself remember all of the wonderful times we’ve had.”
Bruce Dale’s Impact
Bruce Dale’s influence on Justin’s life extended far beyond their shared moments at hockey games. His unwavering support, emotional connection, and presence at key moments in Justin’s career demonstrated the profound impact a grandparent can have in shaping a person’s life journey.