Bruce B. McDonald

Bruce B. McDonald, 76, of Rockford, passed away Sunday, October 2, 2022. Born June 20, 1946, in Rockford, the son of Philip E. and Elizabeth (Brearley) McDonald, Bruce married Deborah Tennant on September 3, 1977.
Survived by his wife, Deborah; children Megan Pedersen, Nathan (Jessica) McDonald, Sarah (Sam) Snyder, Jordan (Kari) McDonald, David (Karyn) McDonald; grandchildren Moriah Pedersen, Jake Pedersen, Josh Pedersen, Ava Pearcy, Griffin McDonald, Hannah Snyder, Eleanor Snyder, Job Snyder; siblings Skip McDonald, Jim (Barb) McDonald, Ann (Bernard) McDonald-Cacho, Bob (Michelle) McDonald; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Bruce grew up in Rockford, where he enjoyed fishing and hunting with his dad and brothers. He was part of the first graduating class of Guilford High School, and received a bachelor's of fine arts degree from Illinois Wesleyan University and a master of fine arts degree in printmaking from Northern Illinois University. While living in Bloomington, he became the proud father of his first child, Megan, who always had a tender place in his heart.
In 1977, Bruce married the love of his life, Deborah, and moved to Tulsa where they spent 22 years raising their five children. He served as an elder and school principal at Bread of Life church and school, and also taught art classes at Philbrook Art Museum and Tulsa Community College.
Bruce and his family moved back to Rockford in 1999 to be closer to family. He continued to teach art at Christian Life Schools and Auburn High School and was co-director of Rockford Arts Council's summer program, ArtsPlace.
Bruce's life was characterized by his love and devotion to God and his family. His greatest joys in life were his wife, children and grandchildren. Bruce was a creative artist, avid fisherman, patient gardener, compassionate friend, loving son and brother, dedicated husband, gentle father and quietly faithful in prayer. He was known for his humorous wit, wisdom and lovingkindness.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, November 4, 2022, at Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford. Visitation will be from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Pregnancy Care Center, 4108 Morsay Drive, Rockford, IL 61107 or Rockford Area Arts Council, 713 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61104. To send a condolence or share a memory, visit olsonfh.com .