Justin Bieber's grandfather dies: The singer bids farewell with an emotional Instagram message
Justin Bieber singer honored his late paternal grandfather, who passed away on April 24, by sharing heartfelt childhood memories and expressing his grief over the loss.
The Canadian singer, Justin Bieber, shared a touching message on social media following the death of his grandfather Bruce Dale, whom he remembered fondly in an April 26 Instagram post. The 31-year-old pop star posted a childhood photo of the two together, accompanied by anecdotes that revealed their close family bond.
Dale, who passed away at the age of 80 at the Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth in Ontario, was the father of Bieber's mother, Patti Mallette. In his tribute, the Canadian singer recalled details from his early years, including attending hockey games and his grandfather's generous spirit, whom he affectionately referred to as "Papa."
A personal tribute full of family memories
In his post, Bieber humorously recalled how he used to convince his grandfather to spend his weekly allowance on snacks and treats at hockey games: “You always gave me all your money, haha,” he wrote. He also mentioned the referees from his youth league and his grandfather's constant complaints during matches, adding warmth and nostalgia to his message.
The Purpose singer concluded the note by expressing hope of seeing his grandfather again in heaven and acknowledging the pain of his passing. “It will hurt. And I will sit with it and allow myself to remember all the wonderful times we had,” he wrote to his more than 295 million Instagram followers.
Justin Bieber says goodbye to his grandfather Bruce Dale with a heartfelt Instagram message. Photo: instagram
Family context and bieber’s recent absences
Bruce Dale’s passing came shortly after Justin Bieber did not attend the Fashion Los Angeles Awards, where his wife Hailey Bieber was honored as “Beauty Innovator of the Year” for her skincare brand, Rhode. Despite his absence, Hailey publicly thanked her husband for his ongoing support.
The Bieber family is navigating an emotionally complex period. Earlier in April, Hailey revealed via Instagram Stories that she is suffering from ovarian cysts. At the same time, the couple is celebrating the recent birth of their son, Jack Blues Bieber, who is now eight months old.