Bruce Melzer, born on February 20, 1947 at Union Hospital in New Ulm, passed away March 13, 2026 at his home in New Ulm.

He is survived by his wife Barbara; daughter and son-in-law, Anna and Ryan Kimm; grandchildren, August and Andie Kimm, all of Viroqua, Wisconsin. His siblings include, Paulette (Gary) Storm of Walker, Sandy (Mike) Shay of St. Cloud, and Bonnie Waggie of St. George.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wally and Doris (Schlottman) Melzer; sister, Beverly Gareis.

Shortly after high school, Bruce spent four years in the US Navy. He then returned to Minnesota where he met and married Barbara Friesen. Bruce played in many bands in Mankato; then joined a show group. Bruce and Barbara traveled the US and Canada for several years. They settled in Laguna Beach, California where their daughter, Anna was born. Two years later, they moved back to Minnesota where Bruce played in bands, and also became a piano tuner. He enjoyed entertaining people, and was a big animal lover. The special times spent with his daughter, Anna, and her family, filled his life with joy. Bruce was a free spirit; his life was an adventure. May he rest in peace.

A private memorial will take place this summer.