Bruce R. Patza

Bruce Robert Patza of rural Seymour passed away June 1, 2025, 16 days before his ninetieth birthday after a short battle with cardiac and neurological issues.

Bruce was born on June 17, 1935 in Egg Harbor, Wisconsin to Ben and Myrtle Patza (Woldt). He was united in marriage to Jane Herlache of Sturgeon Bay on November 6, 1954. Together they raised 9 children and enjoyed 70 years together until her passing in 2024.

Bruce was a member of the IBEW local 158 for 57 years working in industrial electrical construction mainly in the paper industry. He was an avid sportsman, gun enthusiast and self-taught gunsmith. He invented, designed and fabricated a special part that was praised and sought after by gun enthusiasts nationwide. The part was later copied by a major manufacturer.

Bruce is survived by his 9 children: Bob (Diane), Bill (Cindy), Dave (Karen), Dan (Holly), Scott (Jessie), Tom, Ann (John) Shippy, Tim (Jenny) and Sam (Jen). He had 23 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. He is further survived by his 2 brothers Tom (Mary) Patza and Lee (Pat) Patza and his sister-in-law Pam (Dennis) Starr.

He was preceded in death by his wife Jane, his parents, sister Gloria, sister-in-law Joan and brother-in-law Jake Jackson and sister-in-law Chris Patza.

In lieu of a funeral, Bruce’s family will be holding a celebration of life at a later date.