Bruce A. Van Ark

Bruce Anthony “Snake” Van Ark, 75, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026. He was born on March 12, 1951, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, to Mary Ann Boucher (Van Ark) and Eugene Anthony Van Ark. Bruce was raised in Green Bay and graduated from East High School in 1969.

Known to many as “Snake,” Bruce lived life entirely on his own terms. He had a deep love for music and especially enjoyed playing guitar and bass guitar. Music was always part of who he was and remained one of his greatest passions throughout his life. Bruce also loved riding his Harleys and had a special bond with animals, dearly loving his pets throughout the years.

Bruce was one of a kind. He could be stubborn as hell, brutally honest, and never afraid to say exactly what was on his mind, whether people wanted to hear it or not. He had a direct, dry sense of humor that made people laugh, shake their heads, and remember him long after the conversation ended. He was completely and unapologetically himself.

Behind that tough exterior was someone who loved deeply and cared greatly for the people closest to him. He made an impression everywhere he went and touched the lives of many in his own unforgettable way. Those who knew him understood that his loyalty, love, and heart ran deep.

Bruce is survived by his brother, Neil Van Ark, and Neil’s children and grandchildren: Melissa, Micole and family, Larry (his godson) and family, and Scott; his children Shannon Van Ark, Heather and George Powless, Jason and Stacy Bunnell, Nicholas Van Ark, and Christina and Mauro Guzman; his former wife, Bev Bunnell; and his beloved dog, Ginger.

He was also a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. Heather’s children include Anthony Cornelius, Mitchel and Amber Cornelius and their three children, Marissa Cornelius and her daughter, along with children Mitchell Powless, Kayla Powless, Kassandra Powless, and Chad Manthei. Shannon’s children include Zane and Ana Statz, Erin and Joey Palomaki and their two children, and Savannah King and her son. Christina’s children include Marcos Saldana, Santino and Victoria Saldana and their two children, Maya and Joey Sierra and their two children, Dionicia Casablanca and her three children, and Everes Casablanca.

Bruce also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will miss his stories, humor, and presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Ann and Eugene Van Ark; his grandma "Sassy", his former wife, Debra Heckendorf; his sister-in-law, Lois VanArk; and his beloved dogs, Bone and Pumpkin.

Bruce lived life his own way and stayed true to himself until the very end. He will be remembered for his strong spirit, his love of music and motorcycles, and the deep love he had for his family and pets. Though his loss leaves an emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, the memories, laughter, and stories he leaves behind will never be forgotten.