Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
Roch Harvey Bruneau
With deep sadness, we announce the passing of ROCH HARVEY BRUNEAU, who left us at St. Michael’s Health Centre – Palliative Care Unit on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at the age of 79.
Roch was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose life was grounded in hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to the people he loved. He was a loving father to Darren (Corina), Byron, Nathan (Karla), and Rochelle (Dustin Hines), and a proud grandfather to Coby and Gabriel, and to Talus and Torsten. He was a steady and guiding presence in their lives, offering encouragement, perspective, and unwavering support. His pride in his family was evident in all that he did.
He is survived by his brothers Bernie (Anne) and George (Patty) Bruneau, and sister Marie (Gary Cowie).
Roch was predeceased by his wife Simone Therese “Terry” Bruneau (née Zook), brother Roger and his sister Annette Amiotte, as well as his parents, Antoinette “Toni” (Dupont) and Guy Roger Bruneau.
Roch dedicated his professional life to education. He began as a teacher and quickly earned the respect of colleagues and students through his discipline, clarity, and care. He advanced into administration and went on to serve as principal at Our Lady of the Assumption and St. Paul’s schools in Lethbridge, where he led with purpose and conviction. He believed deeply in education as a pathway to opportunity and invested meaningfully in both students and staff, building strong teams and creating environments where people could grow and succeed. He had a particular love for mathematics, bringing both structure and enthusiasm to his teaching.
A tireless worker, Roch believed that commitment was demonstrated through action. Whether in his career, his family life, or his community, he approached each responsibility with focus and follow-through. He had a keen ability to recognize potential in others and took the time to help them develop it, encouraging confidence, growth, and achievement.
Roch valued connection and community and was someone others could rely on. He enjoyed golfing and curling, not only for the sport itself but for the camaraderie and friendships that came with it. His weekends followed a rhythm that reflected what mattered most to him: his Catholic faith, time on the golf course, and family dinners. These were not just habits, but expressions of his priorities: faith, friendships, and family.
He brought people together through consistency, generosity, and quiet leadership. He believed in others, often before they believed in themselves, and made a lasting difference by investing his time and energy in their success.
Roch leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, leadership, and love. He will be deeply missed and remembered for the many ways he strengthened the lives of those around him.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. MARTHA’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 355 Columbia Blvd. West, Lethbridge, AB, on Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Valentine Suum celebrating. The Funeral Mass will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Roch’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.
Guestbook (12)
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I just wanted to say that he was such a good principal.When I was in school at our lady of assumption school , back at ninety two , he was so excited everyday to help out a student with any problems r.i.p God bless you and your family
Dear Bruneau Family~ It has been a sad & difficult time for your family. Many people are thinking of you, including me. I would like to extend my deepest sympathy for your recent loss— may Roch forever rest in peace. Doris Kostiuk
Bruneau Family, Roch was a great mentor and job share partner who I had the pleasure of working with for 5 years at St. Paul’s Elementary School. I was fortunate to work with Roch daily and learned so much about classroom management and strategies that I have continued to use during my teaching career. Roch was an inspirational administrator and teacher. Sending thoughts and prayers to your family. Blessings, LeeAnne & Dean Jetten. 🙏
We have been enriched by many people in our lives; family, neighbors, friends, colleagues, mentors and teachers. Each one knows us quite well, gently guiding us through our journey. And each one generously shared their wisdom, to help us be prepared for an ever-changing world. Mr. Bruneau was so instrumental and supportive of all of his students – and influenced every one of his pupils. Many of his students at St. Basil’s School would gather on Saturday mornings to be in the gymnasium, while Mr. Bruneau prepared his weekly lesson plans. We found a valued ‘big brother’ to share our Saturday physical activities between our school community of students. Roch blessed so many people with his broad smile, thoughtfulness and kindness. Our sincerest condolences are extended to the entire Bruneau family. Bev & Dale Ptycia "Those we have encountered really do not go away, they walk beside us every day... unseen, unheard, but always near, still admired, respected, and very dear." - Unknown
We took our turn to get a chance to talk with the warm cheerful Rock at Struggle Ranch staff parties! A picture says so much more than words… Rock’s smile says it all! Love to all of you Carrie and Tom Cain, Ottawa
So very sorry to hear of Roch's death at mass this morning. I had him as a teacher many years ago. Rest in peace.🙏
Roch was a conscientious, professional and truly Catholic educator. He was a wonderful example to others and a gift to his colleagues and students. We will have a Mass prayed for him at the Shrine of St. Anthony in Assisi this summer.
I am so sorry for your loss family!
The loss is immeasurable. The memories of a lifetime will provide comfort and support. Love you Roch.
My deepest condolences to Roch's amazing "kids", Darren, Byron, Nathan, and Rochelle. Your dad, like your wonderful mom, brought so much joy to everyone blessed to know him and graced my life in countless dimensions for so many years. I keep you all in my heart and thoughts and prayers.
Till we meet again my dear brother. I am so grateful we got to spend some time together before you left us. I will cherish those memories forever. I will miss you every day.
I am so very sorry for your loss. He was one of the best teachers I had, and I know he will be missed by so many.
Memorial Card
