Bruce Wichtendahl

Bruce H. Wichtendahl, age 70, of Peotone, passed away suddenly on Friday, September 13, 2019 at Presence St. Mary’s Hospital in Kankakee.

He was born on November 11, 1948 on the family farm in Peotone, IL, the son of Walter H. and Lucille (Ruhbeck) Wichtendahl.  Bruce grew up working on the family farm and farming always had a special place in his heart.  He served in the Illinois National Guard from 1968-1974.  He married Christina Bakowski on September 17, 1977 at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Peotone.  He was a member of Immanuel United Church of Christ where he served on the church council and as an Elder of the church.  He worked as a truck driver and then as a mechanic for Evergreen Sod Farm in Peotone until 2007.  He enjoyed antique tractors and helped at the Will County Fair tractor pull for many years.  He especially loved spending time with his family.  Bruce loved being a grandfather to Hunter and loved his grand-dog, Gunner.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Christina Wichtendahl; his 2 daughters, Dianna (David) Komperda of Gurnee and Andrea (fiancé Mike Acevedo) Wichtendahl of Manteno; his grandson, Hunter Richard Komperda; his sister and brother-in-law, Karen (Jim) Faford of Kankakee; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held at the Fedde-Helfrich-Cross Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 18 from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at the Fedde-Helfrich-Cross Funeral Home on Thursday, September 19 at 11:00 a.m., Nancy Wheeler officiating.  Cremation rites will be accorded following all services.  Memorials may be directed to the family’s wishes.