Marcus Alexander Bruno Gibbons
elevated QKeI7 Marcus Alexander Bruno Gibbons was born on November 4, 2002 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. As early as age three, educators commented on how socially aware, intelligent, and perceptive he was. He was also a music lover and started playing a quarter violin at that age. During his early childhood and elementary school years, he was energetic, very sports oriented, a bit mischievous and a big ham. He dazzled audiences in several school musicals and sang with his school choir at televised sporting events.
elevated QKeI7 Marcus became more academically minded in junior high. He excelled across subjects and swam competitively. At the tender age of 13, his life was forever altered by Ewing’s sarcoma. Rather than regressing, he blossomed. Indeed, with every passing day, his maturation accelerated. To say that he adapted to the necessities of his harsh treatment regime with grace and understanding is an understatement. It was around this time that he started taking piano performance very seriously in lieu of group sporting activities. He poured his entire soul into his music. Furthermore, through sheer determination and grit, he achieved incredible successes in high school and rehabilitated himself with para-swimming at an elite level. He made the honour roll yearly, was a three-time recipient of the St. Michael’s College School Basilian Book award and was humbled by receiving a Norkus family resiliency award in grade 11. Furthermore, he took away excellent results in this Royal Conservatory of Music performance and written exams and was playing at the ARCT level by grade 12.
elevated QKeI7 When his cancer recurred after a two-year remission, Marcus continued to strive for excellence in goodness, discipline, and knowledge, always wanting to embody the ideals of the “St. Michael’s man”. Even post-surgery and during chemotherapy and radiation treatments, he devoted himself to school and piano, competing in multiple local music festivals, earning many top prizes under the auspices of his esteemed instructor, Dr. Eugene Astapov. He was accepted into the prestigious University of Toronto Faculty of Music for the fall 2020 term. He was so excited for this and never let go of this dream until his final days.
elevated QKeI7 Marcus impressed those around him with his warmth, empathy, maturity, kindness, humility, leadership, and resilience (a term he hated). But his indomitable spirit, good cheer in the face of calamity and incredible work ethic astounded those around him. He left an indelible impression on others whether at home, at school, in the hospital, on his swimming team or at the piano. Many felt he was a person to turn to for wisdom and a listening ear. He was family oriented and a wonderful son, brother, grandson, cousin, and nephew.
elevated QKeI7 Marcus died peacefully at home in North York, Ontario, surrounded by loved ones and the sounds of sweet classical music (much of it his own piano recordings) on August 29, 2020. He will be forever remembered and forever missed. His faith sustained him always–a true consolation. He leaves behind his mother (Dr. Tania Bruno), his father (Dr. Paul Gibbons), his stepfather (Dr. Dale Robinson) and his stepmother (Dr. Sandrine Cartier). He will also be missed by his many siblings, (Dominic, Gabriel, Thomas, David, Julian, and Clara) and his stepsiblings. He also leaves behind four sets of grandparents, many aunts, uncles, and cousins across the globe as well as many dear friends.
elevated QKeI7 Marcus wanted to contribute to society and leave a legacy. His last wishes were to further Ewing’s sarcoma research and help others in need. His family will forever be grateful for the outstanding care he received at Sickkids. To this end, donations towards oncology research can be made care of the Sickkids Foundation at the following site: http://my.sickkidsdonations.com/MarcusAlexanderBrunoGibbons
elevated QKeI7
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Marcus teach us that against all dificults of life we must to be a great brave warrior. He left us a legacy. We always will remember him like a great man, with a great heart, with a beutifull smile. Thanks Marcus to be in our lives. You ll be prensent in us.
To the entire family,
I feel as if I got to know Marcus through all of the wonderful things Dr. Robinson told me about him. I wish all of you my heartfelt condolences.
Heartbroken by your loss. A very special boy called too soon
Una persona que nos dejó una enseñanza de fortaleza ante el mdolor y un amor a la música
Y adoración por toda su familia.
♥️♥️♥️
Marcus siempre será un ejemplo para nuestra familia . Su música , su forma de ser , y la manera con la que enfrentó su enfermedad nos dejara por siempre una huella . Estamos seguros que Marcus está en el cielo junto a Dios y la Virgen Maria y siempre estará con nosotros .
Our sincere condolences. Marcus was a kind, intelligent and talented young man. We will always remember him in our hearts. His strength and endurance has been an inspiration to us all. Rest In Peace Marcus.
We will always remember Marcus’s smile, warm and loving energy and magic at the front desk of Hyatt. He will be greatly missed and our hearts go out to all of you at this time. Sending you so much love.
Dear Paul and Julia, the Hyatt was a home away from home for Marcus; and Robert and I will forever cherish your kindness.
Marcus was a beautiful soul, he tought me how to be brave and enjoy every single day with a smile.
I will do my best to be like him.
Dear Paul and family…
Remembering Marcus as a little boy during those first years of medical school. Our deepest condolences.
Murray, Julie, Alex and Miriam
I had the priviledge of participating in Marcus’ life for the past 3 years. I learned so much from him. He showed me how to trust in God in the middle of hardships, how to pursue my dreams, and how to enjoy the little things every day. I will never forget Marcus, and I know I will see him again.
Marcus inspired me and so many people around him to be strong and to appreciate every day. He will NEVER be forgotten and he will forever be a part of me and many others.
Much love
xoxo
Il paradiso si e’ arricchito di un angelo. Il mio piu’ grande affetto a Tania e tutta la famiglia.
I am so sorry to hear of this incredible loss for your family. Reading the announcement further emphasizes the loss for all of those who knew Marcus. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Tania and Family
The Love and joy that Marcus brought to everyone will never be forgotten.
He was a true inspiration to everyone around him.
Our heart breaks for you and your Family.
No amount of words can express the pain that you and your family are going through. We are sending you and your family love and prayers and that with God you and the family are able to find strength during this difficult time.
Our Deepest Sympathy to you and your family during this time.
Gracias Marcus.
Escuchar tu música es un privilegio.
You were a light in the life of all those lucky enough to be in your presence. Kind. Sweet. Wise. And talented. We will miss you dearly. And love you forever.
Our deepest condolences to the Bruno Family.
Dear Sophia and Robert
Our most sincere condolences on the loss of yourGrandson.
Marcus left an incredible legacy .
Wishing you strength at this difficult time,
Judy and Eli Cohen
Judy and Eli Cohen on September 1, 2020 at 7:48 pm
Dear Sophia and Robert
Our most sincere condolences on the loss of yourGrandson.
Marcus left an incredible legacy .
Wishing you strength at this difficult time,
Judy and Eli Cohen
Dear Judy and Eli, your prayers and thoughts are appreciated. Yes, our sadness is profound, but our gratitude to God for allowing us to be part of Marcus’s life, is still stronger. We miss him, and then, we have him in our minds and will always be present. Hope to see you soon.
Marcus, un sobrino y primo muy querido; nos dejas un ejemplo muy grande de alegría, paz, serenidad, fortaleza, reciedumbre, esperanza, piedad. Amor a la música… Cada una de tus interpretaciones será un recuerdo de cada Una de esas notas “virtudes” que fuiste tocando en tu vida.
Gracias Marcus por enseñarnos que se puede vivir cada instante con serena intensidad. Recordaremos tu legado y amor a la música cada vez que toquemos el piano.
Con profundo cariño y admiración Familia Gómez Coblentz
We are fortunate to have known Marcus, a very special young man, one that accomplished so much and touched the lives of those around him in a very positive and kind way. We will remember him with joy and admiration through the beautiful music that he loved and played so passionately.
Con gran cariño a toda su admirablefamilia.
Our sincerest sympathies go out to you Tania and to the entire family, from our entire family here in Montreal. My heart is broken for you all. I know the pain you are going through. Cherish every memory you have of the happy times, it will help you go on, on those so very dark days. Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to meet Marcus, but in reading Marcus’ obituary it let us have a sense of what a wonderful young man he grew to be and have a small glimpse into his life, short as it was, here on earth. Know that I am here if you need an ear to listen. I will try my best to help from experience.
God Bless You All ♥
It was a great honour to have a chance to meet Marcus – such a wonderful, strong and brave young man.
I will always remember Marcus playing piano with so much passion and emotions .
His music was flowing from his heart and soul.
My deepest condolences to the entire Family.
Uncle Alex
Doy gracias a Dios por haber tenido
Un sobrino como tu.
Me resulta fácil recordarte,mi querido Marcus, tu voz, tu risa, tu cara, tu inteligencia, pero sobre tu alegría, fuiste siempre una persona que influía positivamente en el ánimo de quienes te rodeaban.
Tuve la fortuna de escucharte tocar el piano de la familia, lo cual nos motivó a todos a tomar clases y gozar de la música. Ese piano ya tiene algo de ti.
Estoy seguro que Tu ejemplo de vida, nos ayudará a valorar cada día y a enfrentar las vicisitudes que nos depara la vida.
Me alegra pensarte gozando de la presencia De Dios y de la Santísima Virgen María y además saber que contamos contigo como intercesor allá en el cielo.
Tenemos pendientes unas buenas partidas de ajedrez, primero Dios, las continuaremos allá en el cielo.
Dear Alex… que bonito mensaje. Un abrazo. Sofia
Dear Tania and Dale – This is Amir Roizman from Merz. I learned of this difficult news from Bob Richardson. I wanted to express my condolences for your loss of Marcus. I read his obituary and appreciated the description of his determination and adaption given the challenges he was presented with. I wish you and the extended family and friends of Marcus, as much comfort as can be possible in this time and hope there is peace for you with the great memories and legacy he provided.
Amir
Dear Paul and family…
Heartbroken by your loss.
Our deepest condolences to the entire Family.
I was honored to have known Marcus. We shared many beautiful moments when I was in Montreal with his Abuelita and we spend our days in the pool and watching movies at night. He was an example on how to achieve your goals and dreams. I will always remember him on our birthday, Nov 4th.
We will miss you. My condolences to Paul, Tania, Dominique and family. We love you.
I imagine there is no pain or heartbreak deeper than losing a child. My heart goes out to all of Marcus’ family at this time and I hope all who loved him will find some comfort in each other.
Dear Tania and Family,
We are truly heart-broken for the loss of your beloved Marcus. We were fortunate to have met Marcus on your last visit to Calgary, for the short time we shared together. We were proud to hear, over the years, of his accomplishments and strength. May the beautiful memories of Marcus keep you strong and help you get through this most difficult time. He will always be a cherished part of our family.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Mara, Roberto, Susanna and Family
There are no words to describe the pain we all feel when losing someone so young and talented. My wife, Karen and I cannot imagine your grief. However, during his time with us at St Mike’s Marcus was an inspiration to all of us both staff and students. Know that Marcus and your whole family will be in our prayers
Karen and Greg Reeves
We were honoured to have Marcus as part of the Centro Scuola family in our Saturday morning italian program. His great sense of humour and always present smile made him very popular and liked by classmates and teachers. We were deeply saddened by the loss of this vivacious young man. May he Rest In Peace.
L’eterno riposo,,
dona a lui o Signore,
Risplenda a lui la luce perpetua,
Riposi in pace.
Amen
Our deepest condolences to the Bruno and Gibbons’ families. Sending love, prayers and peace to everyone during this difficult time.
Sofia & Robert & family,
May your beloved Marcus live forever in your hearts and may your memories of him bring much comfort and joy. May God bless him.
Please accept our sincere condolences and know that you are in our prayers.
Sue & David Aucoin
Thank you Marcus for all
the good memories, all your visits to Mexico were moments of joy, laughter and good music. You leave us with a great example of how to live our lives, always smiling and giving the best of you to the world.
You will never be forgotten, and you will always have a special place here en Mexico.
Te queremos mucho.
David Gomez Jr
My thoughts and prayers for Dr Gibbons and the entire family
Dear Dr. Robinson, Dr. Bruno, and family,
I did not have the pleasure of meeting Marcus, but it’s clear how much he is loved. From my time spent with Dale, I learned about the strength Marcus showed in the face of his challenges. Reading Marcus’ obituary has provided me just a small glimpse into his short life and many accomplishments, but more importantly about his character and the wonderful human being he became. Reading the messages from those who knew him, it’s clear Marcus made an indelible mark on everyone in his life. Please accept my sincere condolences.
We were all so sad to hear the news. I am praying for your whole family.
Marcus used to come into Guidance a lot to read, study, or just to be with friends, so I got to know him quite well over the years. He was smart, funny, and caring. He took everything in his stride. Even when he would have been perfectly entitled to ask for accommodation or special consideration, he’d move heaven and earth to be self-sufficient and find his own way through an obstacle. His teachers not only liked him; they admired him. It’s unusual to encounter so wise a soul in one so young, and the grace of God shone through him for all to see.
And his talent in music! My goodness… I’ll never forget his piano performance at Academic Awards Night.
Please know that your St. Michael’s family grieves with you and walks with you, even if the circumstances prevent us from being together physically in this moment.
Dominic, our prayers are with you in a special way, and please know that your St. Michael’s brothers and teachers are standing ready to support you in whatever you may need.
May Marcus rest in peace and rise in glory, and may the Bruno / Gibbons families be consoled by the prayers and well wishes of us all.
We send our deepest condolences as neighbours and with our Christopher having been his classmate we know he will be missed. May he rest in peace and to his family and friends we send our well wishes.
Marcus was a very special young man and an inspiration to so many. May all the beautiful memories you hold dear in your hearts, bring you comfort and peace in the days to come. May you always be surrounded by his love and beautiful music. We are heartbroken for your loss and always here for you. Our deepest condolences. Rest in Peace Dear Marcus and God Bless You.
Marcus it has been an honour being your friend the past few years and gracing us with your stoic presence.
We will always remember your confidence, your beautiful smile and your amazing piano skills. Will never forget our heated chess matches!
Dear Tania, Dale and family
We are so sorry to hear of Marcus’ passing. We only met him once at Audrey’s wedding and he left such an impression on us I don’t think we’ll ever forget him. I can only imagine the wonderful impact he has had on this world and all the lives he has touched.
And I wonder where he got the “reiliency” from;) You all have been an amazing reminder of the type of parents we all want to be.
You are permeating our thoughts daily and let us know if there’s anything we can do
All our love and sympathy ~Heather, Chris, Leia and Cameron
Tania, Dale and family,
We join you in celebrating Marcus, and his joie de vive! We will remember his many accomplishments, but most of all his quiet determination.
Thank you for being such wonderful parents and for having the courage to support him at home. We are heartbroken for you, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Tania and family, my deepest condolences on the passing of your beloved child Marcus. May your family, friends and your faith support and provide comfort for you in the years ahead. Kindest regards, Sue Jewell
Our prayers and heartfelt sympathy go out to your entire family. Marcus was truly a light that shone on us all and we are honoured to have shared many smiles and fond memories. We are heartbroken and will forever remember his vibrant presence.
My heart goes out to you and your family. Marcus ‘s memory will live on in the hearts of so many, as he made a big impact on the lives of many people.
Marcus was such a beautiful presence in this world. His soul has moved on, but he will always be with you. So proud to have met him and I am so honored to call Marcus ” my little cousin ” to you Tania et al my deepest condolences
I am sure he will make beautiful music in heaven with all the angels
Dear Bob and Sofia.
Our most sincerest condolences on the passing of your young Marcus.
There truly are no words right now but simply allow us to share with you in your grief at this time of incredible loss.
Marcus was truly an astounding young man who in his very short time on earth left us all in awe of what dignity, grace and courage looks like.
Peace and our love to you both and all your family.
We are so terribly sorry for your loss.
There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for all of you.
We pray that time and your precious memories will give you strength and courage.
With heartfelt sympathy,Ian and Mary Cino Carleton,Peter and Anthony
My dear, bright Marcus,
I am so sorry that you are no longer with us. You may remember I would always say during our lessons that we have barely scratched the surface of the musical science. It pains me so much to know that I will not be able to delve further into the music of composers with you, into their lives and conspiracy theories. It hurts me to know that we will never be able to discuss how poorly a chord may have been placed in a sonata you were playing. Lessons with you brought me just as much joy and inspiration as they did to you and every evening before your following lesson I would think and plan what to teach you the next time. The impact you left on me will remain there for the rest of my life.
I will always think you of you as the example for every future student I have. I will always compare your positivity, practice stamina, musicianship and hard work to every student that comes to my studio in the future. It will be very difficult for them to live up to the expectations you have set up!
I appreciate so much how easy it was to teach you. How quickly you would grasp very complex musical concepts. You were simply — one of a kind.
Thank you so much for allowing me to know you and to learn from you. You have left behind a legacy that will forever inspire me and many more musicians to come. Thank you, Marcus, and please say hi to all the angels in heaven. They should be extremely pleased with your Chopin!
Marcus was such a kind, funny, and positive person who impacted everybody he met. I will always cherish the laughs and conversation I got to share with him on Saturdays at Italian School. We all love and miss you very much.
Marcus will forever be remembered as a kind and talented young man. He put others’ needs ahead of his own. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this very sad time.
It was a true honour to have met Marcus and your family in these last several weeks. He was a remarkable young man and met an unimaginable situation with such incredible grace. I will always remember his incredible Chopin renditions. May he rest in peace.
Dearest Sofia and Robert,
Father and I were very moved by your notice of Marcus’ death and the biographic arc of his extraordinary life. We can’t hope to adequately express how sorry we are for this irreparable loss. We offer our heartfelt sympathy to Tania and Paul, yourselves and the family.
I do feel we have been given a gift of sublime courage and a powerful beauty that leaves one feeling small and awed in it’s contemplation. Marcus has provided a lesson which, as I age I suspect may haunt me and abide with me. I hope so.
Father and I recently found a half remembered line of Wordsworth, ‘ -A simple child, That lightly draws its breath, And feels its life in every limb, What should it know of death?’
Roger and John Little
Chers Paul et Sandrine,
Je m’adresse à vous, ainsi qu’à toute votre grande famille, pour vous exprimer mon soutien et ma compassion en ce moment de deuil.
Je n’ai pas connu Marcus, n’ai pas eu ce privilège devrais-je dire, car à la lecture de l’hommage qui lui est fait, de tous ces témoignages édifiants, si touchants, à l’écoute de sa musique, je prends la mesure de l’être exceptionnel qu’il était.
Marcus a visiblement profondément inspiré son entourage. Je pense particulièrement à ses deux jeunes frères Thomas et David, que j’ai (eu) le plaisir et l’honneur d’enseigner.
J’imagine que malgré votre peine, vous devez également être très fiers de Marcus, comme de toutes les belles choses qu’il a accomplies, en si peu de temps.
Je vous présente mes sincères condoléances.
Dear Tania, Dale and your wonderful extended family – know that our hearts ache across the country for you all for your loss of Marcus. I was amazed by his talent, awed by what you have all been through yet maintained such grace. We all learn from you about what is truly important in life, and will hug our kids a bit more because of you.
Please know that all the members of the Bruno and Gibbons family are in our thoughts and prayers.
At St. Michael’s we have been blessed to have Marcus shine his light among us and have been inspired by his steadfastness, courage, and resilience.
May the goodness of his life bring consolation to his family and friends.
Sweet Darling Beautiful Marcus,
The joyous memories spent together with you as a Little Tike , your brother Dominic and and Mom when you lived here in Montreal keep replaying in my mind and heart. I was trying to remember the words to a riddle / joke you taught me. You were so young then yet wise beyond your years.
Already making your mark in people’s hearts.
Your Journey here was lived with so much dignity grace and courage. You will always be remembered with much love and admiration.
My most heart felt, sincerest condolences to your family and friends.
Dear Paul and Tania, Robert and Sofia, and all the extended family. I am so sorry for your loss. The best we can do is to remember, to hope, to believe and to care. With love, Uncle Dick
I’m so sorry to hear this Dale. My condolences to you and your family.
We will never again listen to the piano music we love – as we do every day throughout the day – without feeling Marcus’s presence. Martha will never again sit down at the piano, without feeling inspired by Marcus. Marcus and his family will ever be in our thoughts and prayers.
I was heartbroken when I saw the note in the St Mikes alumni magazine of yet another bright star lost to the unforgiving Ewing’s Sarcoma. We will remember him and your family in our prayers.