Theodore J. "Ted" Bruch

1940 - 2025

Theodore J. "Ted" Bruch
Born: May 15, 1940 in Seneca, Ill.
Died: October 6, 2025 in Kirkland, Ill.
Theodore J. "Ted" Bruch, 85, passed away peacefully in his home on October 6, 2025, after a long illness.
Ted, the son of Carl E. and Agnes G. Bruch, was born on May 15, 1940, in Seneca, IL. Ted married Judith A. Smith, on January 19, 1963, and they shared 54 wonderful years together until her passing in 2016 at the age of 74.
Ted was a dedicated farmer, community leader and an astute businessman. He took great pride in the farm and its operation. Following his father's death at the age of 57, Ted took over and his father's farming operation and trucking company at the early age of 36. Ted also devoted himself to the community having joined the Kirkland Community Fire Department (KCFD) in 1958, volunteering for 44 years. He became Chief in 1985 and served in that capacity for 17 years. Ted also served as a board member for several years for the State Bank of Kirkland and its successor.
Ted survived by his children, James (Sandy) Bruch of Kirkland, Connie Bruch-Harrison of Mesa, AZ, Debra Cash of Livingston, TX and Tracy Bruch of Kirkland; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; sisters, Dorothy Taylor, Gold Canyon, AZ and Donna (Gary) DeBarr, Athens, GA; and brother, John (Sally) Bruch, Kirkland, IL.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ted's memory can be made to the Kirkland Community Fire Department, 3891 State Rt. 72, Kirkland, IL 60146.
Funeral Service will be held at 10 am Friday, October 10, 2025, at Olson's Quiram Kirkland Chapel, 309 S. Fifth St., Kirkland, IL 60146, with Pastor Willie Little officiating.
Visitation will be from 4 pm to 7 pm Thursday, Oct. 9, at the funeral chapel.
Burial will follow the funeral service in Maple Cemetery, Kirkland.
For information, 815-522-3563. Visit www.olsonfh.com to leave a condolence.