It is with heavy hearts that the family of Eckhart (Eric) Bromse wish to announce his sudden passing on February 23rd at the age of 88 surrounded by family and loved ones at the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital. Pre-deceased by his loving wife Ingrid and partner for 58 years, he will be greatly missed by his four daughters; Gabrielle (Douglas), Evelyn (Chris), Ingrid (Mick), Christina (Zach), eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren, niece Christina (Ray), relatives in Germany, the U.S. and his close friend Mary.
Eric immigrated to Collingwood from Germany in 1957 and worked as a welder for the Collingwood Shipyards. He later started his own business, Collingwood Welding and Machine Shop, which he operated for over 35 years working on many local and community projects. Not only an expert welder, Eric was the true meaning of a handyman and he could design, build and repair just about anything. Passionate for motorcycles since he was a young man, he and Ingrid travelled many miles throughout Canada and the U.S. on his road bike.
He always enjoyed participating in vintage bike rallies and hanging out with his motorcycle club buddies. Every fall, he looked forward to spending time with his hunting friends at their camp in Tobermory. He was an incredible dancer, avid skier, enjoyed snowmobiling and taking the kids waterskiing and fishing on summer weekends at the family cottage. When he wasn’t working long days at his welding shop, Eric could be found working on home projects or building and repairing things for others.
Eric kept active well into his 80’s and would never say no to outdoor adventures such as snowshoeing, biking and watching his grandkids ride at the motocross track. He was the best Opa in the world…proud of all his grandchildren and loving the special times spent with them.
We will all miss his calm strength, honesty and patience, his strong work ethic, sound advice and warm hugs. He was always there when we needed him. He was a true gentleman. He was our rock and he taught us many valuable life lessons. Our dad, our loving Opa, will live forever in our hearts.
Thank you to the wonderful ongoing care of Dr. Wells and Dr. Abu and to Dr. Joe and ICU nurses at CGMH for their expertise and compassion.
Cremation will take place and a private family celebration of life will be planned for the spring.
Donations in lieu of flowers cans be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation or to Collingwood General and Marine Hospital.
Arrangements entrusted to Affordable Cremation Services