With great sadness, Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA) announces the death of Bruce Harschnitz, HCA’s Manager of Conservation Area services. Harschnitz died early Wednesday, November 8, 2023, after being struck by a vehicle while out on a walk.
“Bruce was a big part of the HCA family and will be greatly missed by staff, board members and the community,” said HCA CAO Lisa Burnside. “He had a passion for nature and was a mentor to many here at HCA.”
Bruce was recently quoted in a Hamilton Conservation Foundation donor profile, saying, “I believe in the Conservation Authority. I am proud to work here, and I think it’s incredibly important to make an impact in any way you can.” He truly lived that and impacted everyone he met, and his absence will be genuinely felt by all who knew him.
Bruce Harschnitz began his career with HCA as a high school summer student 45 years ago, working as a part-time Interpretive Assistant in the Dundas Valley. He received his university degree in Environmental Science and Biology from Trent University. In 1990, Bruce returned to HCA, working at Fifty Point as a Marina Attendant and Parks Worker. He then moved up to Christie Lake Conservation Area, where he held the positions of Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent for the next 23 years. He took on the role of Superintendent of Confederation Beach Park from 2014 to 2017. In the Fall of 2017, he was awarded the Manager of Conservation Services position. His wide range of experience and learning gave him a wealth of knowledge he was always happy to share.
Bruce is survived by his wife of 31 years, Marian, his two brothers, Peter and Brian, and other family members, and his extended family of HCA colleagues.
Friends will be welcomed at the Brantford Golf and Country Club, 60 Ava Road, Brantford on Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 12 – 2 p.m. A Memorial Service will follow at 2 p.m. Online condolences and donations may be made at www.budgellfuneralhome.ca.
