Justin Bieber is mourning the loss of his beloved grandfather, Bruce Dale, who passed away on April 24, 2025, at the age of 80.
On Saturday (April 26), the 31-year-old pop icon shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, reflecting on his close relationship with his maternal grandfather. According to an obituary from W.G. Young Funeral Home in Stratford, Ontario, Dale died at Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth.
Alongside a throwback photo, Bieber opened up about cherished childhood memories, writing, “Papa, I always took all your money lol. I remember you telling me gramma gave you an allowance of 20 dollars for the week, and I would convince you to spend it all on snacks at Friday night hockey games.”
The “Sorry” singer went on to list some of their favorite treats, including corn nuts, Skittles, gumballs, chuck-a-puck games, and Slush Puppies.
Justin Bieber also fondly remembered Dale’s spirited personality at hockey matches, noting how his grandfather was never shy about loudly criticizing referees. “My grandpa wasn’t shy in letting them know that they were being pieces of sh-t,” he joked.
In his touching message, Bieber shared his faith that they will be reunited one day, writing, “I can’t wait to see you again soon in heaven. Until then, I know you’re watching, probably still heckling Beatty or Fagon for missing that cross-check call in the corner.”
The emotional tribute concluded with Bieber expressing the deep sense of loss he feels: “I will miss you. I will ache. And I’ll sit and let myself remember all of the wonderful times we’ve had.”
Bruce Dale, who was the father of Pattie Mallette (Justin’s mother), was a constant supporter of Bieber throughout his rise to global stardom. He appeared in the 2011 documentary Never Say Never and participated in a 2018 interview at the Stratford Perth Museum, which hosted an exhibit celebrating Bieber’s career.
The obituary also mentioned Bieber’s wife, Hailey Bieber, and their son Jack Blues, alongside Dale’s other children and his wife, Diane.
This is not the first major family loss for the singer — Bieber’s paternal grandfather, George Bieber, passed away in 2021.
Fans can view Justin Bieber’s heartfelt tribute to Bruce Dale on his official Instagram account.
