Mr. Bruce Nolan Proesel

Proesel, Bruce Nolan, age 65, of South Milwaukee, passed peacefully, surrounded by family related to stomach cancer and kidney failure on January 21, 2020 at Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee. He was born August 25, 1954 in Clintonville to James and Shirley (Arndt) Proesel and raised in Oak Creek. At 18, Bruce enlisted with the USMC where he served as Lance Corporal. He earned a Rifle Marksmen Badge and received a National Defense Service Medal with honorable discharge in 1978. After his service, he was a member of the local UAW chapter during his 12 years at General Motors in Oak Creek. His parents and sister, Leiann worked at the plant as well. Over the years, Bruce held various jobs, such as roofing with his brother, David and elevator repair with friend, Rocky.

He was quiet, humble, and easy going. Bruce had the greatest smile. Despite being hidden behind his big burly beard, it was always easy to see by the twinkle in his eyes. Along with the trademark beard, he’s remembered for his fondness of overalls, black t-shirts, his NRA ball cap, Harley-Davidson suspenders and his much loved leather riding jacket. He enjoyed working in the garage, racing, deer hunting, bluegrass music and motorcycles. He loved Big Falls, it held a special place in his heart. Bruce is survived by parents; Jim and Shirley Proesel of Waterford, daughters; Kristen (Justin) Hendrickson of Waterford, Lisa Proesel of Milwaukee, granddaughters; Brynn Elyse (12) and Tess Avery (5) Hendrickson, siblings; David (Terry) Proesel of Oak Creek, Jim (Karen) Proesel of South Milwaukee. Bruce is preceded in death by his sister, Leiann (Bill) Bachand of Waterford. A small private gathering with military honors will be held February 1st, 2020. The family wishes to thank the VA Medical Center ICU staff for the dedicated and compassionate care provided to Bruce in his final days as well as the kindness and support extended to his loved ones.