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Bruce Ladwig 03/23/2020

Bruce Allen Ladwig, age 51, of New Richmond, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 23, 2020, at Westfields Hospital with his wife and children at his side.

Bruce was born on April 22, 1968, in Watertown, South Dakota, son of late Lloyd “Bee” and Geneva (Domagala) Ladwig. He was the youngest of seven siblings. He graduated from Hamlin High School and attended Lake Area Vo-Tech to earn a degree specializing in small appliance electrical repair. While working in Watertown, he accepted a managerial position for HOM Furniture and moved to Minnesota where he remained a dedicated and valued employee for 30 years.

On June 2, 2001, he married Margaret (Peggy) Smart, and in their 19 years together they welcomed two daughters, Kalley, Ella, and a son, Landon. First and foremost, his family was his number one priority. He enjoyed taking family trips to state parks, hiking, and anywhere he could spend time outdoors.

Bruce loved landscaping projects and was often teased for being a starter of many home improvements, but a finisher of few. He was an avid Minnesota sports fan, especially fond of the Vikings. He was best known for his quick-witted sense of humor and his easygoing personality. He was the person to always rely on for help and support in any situation. He had a heart of gold and will be dearly missed by all.

Bruce is survived by his wife, Peggy (Smart) Ladwig; his children, Kalley Fae, Ella Rose, and Landon Allen; his siblings William (Denise) Ladwig, Colleen Thill, Rolland (Olga) Ladwig, Lisa (Todd) Heer; sister-in-law Lori (Hardina) Ladwig; and many cousins, in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Bruce is preceded in death by his father Lloyd “Bee” Ladwig; his mother, Geneva (Domagala) Ladwig; his brothers Calvin and Brian Ladwig; brothers-in-law Dean Thill and Richard “Rick” Smart; and father-in-law Ronald “Ron” Smart.

A public visitation was held on Friday, June 26, 2020 from 4-7 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S Knowles Ave.) in New Richmond.  All guests attending will be requested to wear face masks, practice physical distancing and following CDC guidelines as well guidelines set by the county and city.  A family memorial service was held on Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 11:00 am at Bakken-Young with visitation one hour before the service.  A reception followed the service.  Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

17 Comments

  • Sherie & Mark Lehr Posted March 24, 2020 12:52 am

    We are so sorry to hear about Bruce. Our hearts and prayers are with you at this time.

    • Rich and Pat Maund Posted March 25, 2020 2:29 am

      Our deepest condolences. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

      • David Michaels Posted March 26, 2020 7:34 pm

        We at the Hom/Dock 86 community are very saddened to hear of Bruce’s passing. Every person that he came in contact with was touched by his kindness & his humor. He will be greatly missed as a friend! On a personal note I will miss having Bruce & “Butch” play in our annual Sofa King golf tourney. Our thoughts & prayers are with you his family. God Bless

  • Greg Richter Posted March 25, 2020 2:24 pm

    Heard this sad news from back in South Dakota – Bruce was a classmate of ours at Lake Area Tech in Electronics from 86-88.

  • Doug and Paula Olson Posted March 26, 2020 2:02 am

    Peggy and family
    Paula and I grieve your loss.
    Bruce was a kind and funny individual and he will be sorely missed.
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  • Leesa Chrisco Posted March 27, 2020 8:46 pm

    I am so sorry for your family’s loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  • Bryce Ladwig Posted March 27, 2020 9:54 pm

    Bruce was a wonderful man and an even better uncle. Quiet mannered at times. My dad (Brian) was very close to him not only as his brother but as a true friend. I remember Bruce always being there to talk to my dad through difficult times which just goes to show what kind of person he was. I love you all and I am sorry for your loss.

  • Catherine Mamer Posted March 27, 2020 10:08 pm

    Grieving with you dear Peggy and family. What a terrible loss. I am so sorry and hope to be of comfort at some time in the future. Much love and many prayers.

  • Bobbi Ruesch Posted March 28, 2020 7:11 pm

    We are so sorry to hear about Bruce. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

  • Ruth Ramanauskas Posted March 29, 2020 4:33 pm

    Peggy and Family: I am so sorry to hear about Bruce. I have very fond memories of Bruce. He was actually the Store Manager at Total Bedroom in Rochester when he hired me in 1995. Bruce was a great guy who was fun to work for. He will be missed dearly. So sorry to hear of your loss.

  • Matthew Thiele Posted March 30, 2020 5:35 pm

    Peggy, I’m so sorry to hear about Bruce. I am praying for you and your family.

  • Rebecca Baker Posted March 30, 2020 8:10 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I just saw Bruce at work a couple weeks ago, he was as always in a positive spirit, singing songs and sentences in his unique jovial manner. He spoke of his kids and his desire to be home with them during this time. As someone who had limited interactions with him, I’m deeply saddened to hear of his passing. He had an impact on those around him.

  • Maria Miller Posted March 31, 2020 4:51 pm

    Ella, Landon, and family ~ I am so sorry to hear about your dad’s passing. Sending my deepest sympathies.

  • Jeff Rohkohl Posted April 3, 2020 5:55 pm

    Sorry to hear of Bruce. He was a great man and friend.

  • Samantha Wood Posted April 9, 2020 2:45 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I loved Bruce, he was always so fun to talk to and no matter what I think he put a smile on everyone’s face, including mine.

  • Christine Bouquet Posted April 10, 2020 5:02 pm

    Completely heartbreaking.???

  • Dennis Knieff Posted June 3, 2020 4:04 pm

    I am so sorry for your loss.I will miss Bruce very much. He was not only my boss but a friend. We use to have long talks about family and life. I will miss that. Coming back to work and not having him here has been hard.

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