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FLORENCE, Wis. -- Bruce Edgar Peterson, 84, of Florence, Wis., passed away peacefully on Sunday Nov. 1, 2026, in Hampshire, Ill.
Bruce was born Dec. 27, 1941, in Chicago, the son of Philip and Berniece (Rolander) Peterson. Growing up in Chicago, Bruce enjoyed spending family time during the summer at their lake home in Spread Eagle, Wis.
A proud graduate of Northwestern University, Bruce went on to earn a master's degree from Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago. After graduation Bruce started his career at Vap-Air in Niles, Ill., and then transferred to Sundstrand Aerospace (Collins Aerospace) in Rockford, Ill., working in electrical engineering management. Bruce was a respected leader, mentor and friend to many throughout his accomplished 35-year career.
A highlight of Bruce's career was being a program manager on the F-22 Raptor program and testing on the electric systems for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner program. Bruce was never one to sit still and after his successful career in aerospace he began a new chapter in semi-retirement when he purchased and operated a UPS Store. Bruce spent most of life in Rockford, Ill., but traveled to Spread Eagle most weekends. Bruce's love of adventure carried him through every season. Whether water skiing in the summer, snow skiing in the winter, or enjoying a round of golf, he welcomed every opportunity to enjoy life.
After retirement, Bruce and his wife Marla moved to Spread Eagle, where they enjoyed all the lake has to offer. Sunset cruises in his vintage Chris-Craft, quality time with his friends and family, sitting by the fire, and occasionally flying the grandkids around the lake on the tube. Bruce loved to travel, was fascinated with trains, was a loyal Chicago Cubs, Bears and Northwestern Wildcats fan through every victory and defeat. No matter where his adventures took him, his family and his beloved dog, Ginger, were always close to his heart.
Bruce was married June 17, 1995, to his love, Marla (Klock). For 31 years, they shared a beautiful bond built on love, devotion, and togetherness. Bruce adored Marla and was happiest when she was by his side, a sweet reflection of just how much she meant to him. Through life's everyday moments and greatest adventures, Marla was his favorite person to share them with. Their love was one of the most beautiful parts of his life.
He is survived by his wife, Marla; his children, Kevin (Sara) Peterson, Kari (Tim) Peterson, Kathi (Scott) Meyer, Allison Sowell, and Lindsay (Nick) Wilczewski; 17 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; his sisters, Beverly (Grant) Erickson, Barbara Blackburn, sister-in-law Marcia (Klock) (Carl) VanHooijdonk; many nieces, nephews, and friends; and his beloved dog, Ginger.
A truly one-of-a-kind soul, Bruce had a gentle spirit and a quiet warmth that made others feel comfortable and welcome. He approached life with an open heart, saw the good in people, and found happiness in the simplest moments. His kindness, optimism, and genuine goodness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He was preceded in death by his parents. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.
A private family gathering will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be shared at www.fredrickfuneralhome.com.
Memorials in Bruce Peterson's name may be directed to the Spread Eagle Chain of Lakes Invasive Species Fund, P.O. Box 413, Florence, WI 54121.