Bruce McIlquham

1951 - 2025

Bruce McIlquham

April 13, 1951 - December 17, 2025

Bruce Edward McIlquham, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, at the age of 74, in Eau Claire, WI, after a courageous battle with dementia. Born on April 13, 1951, in Chippewa Falls, WI, to Evelyn McIlquham (Ewing) and Theodore McIlquham. Bruce graduated in 1969 from Chippewa Falls High School. Bruce's life was a testament to the values of hard work, dedication, and the joy of simple pleasures.

Bruce's journey began growing up on a dairy farm, where he was raised with a strong work ethic. Throughout the years Bruce learned many talents working in a variety of industries, such as building silos and working for the railroad. His true passion was crop farming. Bruce worked for Grohn's Farms for over 35 years. A jack of all trades, Bruce never met a problem he couldn't fix or at least make you believe he had fixed it with a bit of electrical tape. He was selfless, too, always the first to lend a hand or a tool, and the last to take any credit. However, it was farming that captured Bruce's heart. He spent the majority of his life dedicated to the farm.

August 12, 2006, Bruce married the love of his life, Beverly Sather (Vlietstra). Bruce was a devoted father to Cory McIlquham (Sandy), Bruce Jr. McIlquham (Angie), Andrew McIlquham (Brittany), Charles McIlquham, Dusty McIlquham, Rebecca Smith (Jeremy), Theodore McIlquham, Tonya DeLeasky (Dakota), and stepchildren Steven Sather (Hope), Michael Sather II, Bethany Cerutti (Bob), and Jessica Sather. His children remember him as a pillar of strength and a constant source of support.

Let's not forget the grandkids, who were truly adored and the occasional victims of his playful pranks. Brooke, Brock, Jesse, Anna, Hailey, Henry, Wilson, Alexander, Oliver, Evelyn, Connor, Theo, Wesley, Corbin, Sullivan, Nicole, Ella, Ashley, David, Baylen and Vincent. In addition to his great grandchildren, Carter, Mia and Archer.

Bruce is survived by his brothers Vern McIlquham (Betty), Donnie McIlquham (Lynn) and his sister Nancy Halvorson (Jim).

Bruce was preceded in death by his mother, father, brother; David, Luther Grohn and Virgina Grohn.

Bruce seized every opportunity for a road trip. Bruce loved traveling and exploring new places, but always took all the back roads to scope out farms and fields. He never missed a chance to stop and talk with another farmer about their fields and crops. His love for the outdoors also included hitting the trails on his four-wheeler. When asked what kind of food Bruce wanted to eat, he always responded "good food." Bruce jumped at every chance to go out to eat with his wife Beverly and family.

Bruce's family would like to thank his attentive family and caregivers at Milestone Senior Living Eau Claire.

Bruce will always be remembered for his witty comments and clever nicknames. His legacy is one of love, hard work, and the joy that comes from a life well-lived. Bruce's memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories told by his loving wife, children, and the many grandchildren who will continue to look up to him as a role model. Bruce's life was a journey of love, laughter, and tireless dedication. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Chippewa Valley Cremation Services – Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family with services. A visitation will be held at the Celebration of Life Center (1717 Devney Dr, Altoona , WI 54720) on December 31, 2025 from 10AM-11AM. The funeral service will be held at 11AM with a luncheon to follow. Interment will be in Lakeview Cemetery (1500 Buffington Dr, Eau Claire, WI 54703).