By Adam Brazeau
MAXVILLE, Ontario – Before 55 pipe bands gave a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace, it was announced that one of the performers had died.
62-year-old Bruce Jones of the Forest City Celtic Pipe Band (formerly known as the London Ontario Pipe Band) passed away at the Maxville Highland Games on Saturday afternoon.
Past-president and director of advertising Dona Cruickshank confirmed the identity of the piper after speaking to officials.
“It’s very sad for the games,” said Cruickshank. “He was here following his passion in life and we regret his passing.”
Cruickshank said Jones walked off the field to seek medical attention, when he arrived at the EMS station he collapsed. Jones was pronounced deceased over the PA system during the massed bands segment of the evening.
“…he died there and couldn’t be resuscitated,” said Cruickshank.
Jones is listed on the band’s website as a member of the Grade 5 pipe band.
The band wears the Ancient of MacLean of Duart tartan. They recently changed their logo, inspired by the Tree of Life as referenced in the Book of Kells.
The pipe band is scheduled for three events during their competitive season, Cambridge Highland Games July 20-21, Maxville Highland Games August 2-3 and Fergus Highland Games August 9-11.
OPP were unavailable for comment.
To watch a performance by the Forest City Celtic Pipe Band visit their website, http://www.forestcityceltic.com/.
