Monument of Nebo township, William Wallace Mervyn Bruce has passed away, aged 106 years old.
Born in Nebo, January 2, 1917, William, better known as Bill, lived the first part of his life in the clutches of the Fort Copper Hotel, his parents the licensees of the hotel. However, the family soon moved to a property outside of Nebo.
With two brothers and three sisters, Bill ran amok in Nebo and was often exploring the region’s outback.
In 1942, Bill enlisted into the war effort, initially the reserves, but was transferred into the Australian Army the following year.
He was sent to New Guinea as part of a support battalion, where he learned electrical engineering, however before long, he was promoted to leading technician.
In 1945, Bill was discharged from the Australian Military Forces and returned to Nebo.
Establishing himself as a contractor, he partnered with his brother, who had recently returned from the war effort as well.
From there, Bill has led an extensive life of service to the community. He was an active member of the Nebo RSL, was the secretary in 1960 and the president from 1987 until 2012. He was integral in organising Nebo ANZAC Day celebrations for more than 50 years.
His community service includes being a member of the Nebo Busman’s Council, the Nebo Jockey Club, a founding member of the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB) Lodge, and even carried the Queen’s Baton for the Commonwealth Games in 2018.
Throughout Bill’s life, he not only witnessed history, but was pivotal in creating it.
William Bruce passed away at the age of 106 years old.
William Wallace Mervyn Bruce has passed away, aged 106 years old
William Bruce lived a life of service
William Bruce and his brother. Photos supplied