Obituary of Robert Lippert

Lifelong Waterloo County resident Bruce Lippert passed away at Grand River Hospital on May 12th, 2023, a few days past his 73rd birthday, after a long illness. 

He is survived by husband Bill Kirk, sisters Linda Hancock and Laurie Stockie, children Eric and Heather, granddaughter Makani, a great many nieces and nephews, and former spouse Linda (Kellerman) Lowry. He was preceded in death by his parents Bob and Marg (Reddington) Lippert, longtime partner Fred Rolleman, and brother David.

Bruce began his career at Mutual Life before switching to the restaurant industry. As the owner and operator of the Magpie Cafe in New Hamburg, and as a server in many establishments throughout Waterloo County, he was known for his welcoming smile and attention to detail. He loved being around people and making their special meals memorable.

He was a part of the community at Inverhuron Beach his entire life, spending hours on the beach, in the wood-fired sauna, skinny dipping, and singing around the campfire. Bruce loved to sail in the bay, and many family dinners were delayed by the lull between the onshore and offshore breeze. More recently you could find him on the deck in a Muskoka chair, sharing news with neighbours with a glass of wine and his beloved Bill by his side. 

A memorial will be held after 3pm on June 24, 2023 at the Darlise Cafe -- Bruce’s favourite -- at 33A Queen St. South in Kitchener, and a happy hour at the cottage for his beach friends the afternoon of August 5th. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Bruce’s favourite charity at The Working Centre.

The great blue heron rises from the river and skims over the dark water towards the lake; quietly it gathers strength into its broad wings and glides towards the orange sunset on the horizon.