PEWAUKEE, WI - Age 78. Now in the arms of the Lord as of March 2, 2024, during a valiant recovery from cardiac arrest, where the Lord continually blessed and encouraged him step-by-step.

Born to Kurt and Ellen (Ringeisen) Manke, he had been a Milwaukee area resident all of his life, graduating from Custer High School and having several long tenures as a machine operator, always providing for family. From a young age he always had a passion for the grandeur of God he found in the cosmos (along with any space program exploring it), Sci-Fi, classic cars, spending time on the family property in Rhinelander, WI, and back in the day could often be found on the floor of a nightclub dancing to the likes of James Brown, The Beatles, Elvis and others.

He then met his wife of nearly 30 years, Connie, whom he adored and loved to spend time with whether at home or during trips visiting family, always with much laughter. After her death, he and his son, Rhett, both grew closer to the Lord and to each other, living together until Bruce's final days where they were blessed to have traveled together to Israel, Utah and on several day trips filled with great memories that both will always cherish. While being a steadfast source of encouragement and support, especially to his son, Bruce also loved working out at the gym, his cats, and cheering on Wisconsin sports teams.

Most importantly, his faith in Christ grew in his later years being a part of Spring Creek Church in Pewaukee, and St. Michael's Anglican Church in Delafield, whose prayers, visits, help, and advice to both Bruce and Rhett have been, and will continue to bring much needed support, along with that of loving friends and family.

Survived by and beloved father of Rhett Manke; dear stepfather to Amy (Vacca) Romans and Tony Vacca; nine step-grandchildren; nieces and nephews Dan, Darcy, David, Eric, Karen and Kurt.

Preceded in death by his wife and love of his life Connie (Roetzler) Manke, their daughter Amber; parents Kurt and Ellen; brothers Kurt and Dan; niece Dana.

Words consistently used to describe Bruce have been "kind," "respectful," and "a gentleman," whose smiling face will be missed by many. This is how he shall be remembered.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to The Milwaukee Rescue Mission, and St. Michael's Anglican Church in Delafield, WI.