Bruce Robert Brenke

Bruce Brenke

Age 69, of Saint Paul, Minnesota was born on October 8,1956 to Fred and Marion (Krekelberg) Brenke in Belle Plaine, Minnesota. He was the youngest of eight children. 

Bruce was a quiet and gentle man whose life was marked by kindness, faith, family, and simple joys. He valued harmony and treated others with respect. He never spoke ill of others and lived simply, finding happiness in the everyday things that brought comfort and joy. A walk, a Coca-Cola and a few cookies made him happy.

Family was very important to Bruce. He often joined the Willson family for gatherings and holidays. Bruce learned to play double solitaire from his sister Janice, and it became a favorite pastime. He also enjoyed spending time with his sister Shirley and brother-in-law Richard in nightly Bible study. Bruce was an avid reader of the Bible, and his faith was an important part of his life.

Bruce was proud of his independence. He lived in his own apartment in Saint Paul for more than 35 years, and having a home of his own was deeply important to him. He was a longtime resident of the Saint Paul community and was friendly with his neighbors. Even when everyday tasks became more difficult, the kindness of those around him was evident. Neighborhood children helped Bruce carry his groceries, a simple gesture that meant a great deal.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, his brother-in-law Richard made special trips to make sure Bruce had nutritious meals and was cared for. Bruce appreciated these acts of love and the many people who looked out for him throughout his life. Bruce worked for many years in janitorial services at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, where his dependable, and steady nature served him well. In his younger years, he served as Student Council President and Manager for the Belle Plaine High School wrestling team. He also played on the Belle Plaine track, football, and wrestling teams. 

Bruce was a devoted Minnesota Vikings fan and loved cheering on his team. He was a lover of music and movies. Star Wars was among his favorites, and he enjoyed the music of Amy Grant. These simple pleasures, along with the company of people he loved, filled his days with meaning.

At the Hudson Hospital and the Stillwater Good Samaritan nursing home, his nurses and aides said that he was an excellent patient, and that he talked fondly of his family.

Bruce died peacefully on June 8, 2026. His passing came on the same day that his beloved mother, Marion, died 24 years earlier—a poignant connection that will forever make June 8 a significant day for his family. Bruce is remembered for his gentle spirit, faith, humor, friendship, and kindness. He did not need to be the loudest person in the room to make an impression. His warm smile, and appreciation for others spoke for him.

Bruce is survived by his brothers Robert (Tina) Brenke, Jim (Ann) Brenke, Doug (MaryAnne) Brenke, sister Shirley (Richard) Willson, sister-in-law Julie Brenke, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Fred and Marion Brenke, his sisters Joyce Loftus and Janice Wareberg, his brother Stan Brenke, and brothers-in-law Tom Loftus and Don Wareberg.