Bruce Edward Winter

Bruce Edward Winter, 68, of Mankato, MN, passed away on Nov. 8, 2024. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family after losing his yearlong battle with cancer. A devoted husband, beloved father, and cherished grandfather, Bruce was known for his deep love for his family and his zest for life.

Born on September 5, 1956, in St. Peter, MN, Bruce graduated from Le Sueur High School in 1975. He went on to pursue a teaching degree, attending Golden Valley Lutheran College and later the University of Minnesota - Duluth. Bruce dedicated 28 years of his career to All American Foods in Mankato, MN, where he was known not only for his hard work but for the friendships and community he built along the way.

An avid outdoorsman, Bruce found joy in hunting, fishing, and scouting, always eager to share his knowledge and love for nature with those around him. He was also well-known for his winemaking talents, often sharing a glass and a good story with family and friends.

Whether refereeing, coaching, or cheering from the sidelines, Bruce poured his energy into sports, believing every child deserves encouragement and support. Alongside his beloved wife, Denise, he explored new places and adventures, sharing a love of travel that enriched their lives and created beautiful memories. Their love was a true partnership, built on laughter, friendship, and mutual support that built a strong foundation for their family.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Denise; his children, Jason (Sammy) Winter and Brian (Allyson) Winter; his treasured grandchildren, Kaleb, Rydan, Jace, and Evelyn; his adored “grandpups,” Lucy, Annie and Ollie. He is also survived by his mother, Doris Winter; his sisters, Joyce (Jon) McCargar and Nancy (Jim) Halbmaier; his father- and mother-in-law, Robert and Sylvia Bigaouette; brothers-in-law, Terry (Sue) Bigaouette, Joe (Julie) Bigaouette, Frank Bigaouette, sisters-in-law, Barb (David) Viehweg, Brenda (James) Kroehler, Debbie (Rick) Groebner; and many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ed Winter; his grandparents, Russell and Ruth Baringer, and Alphonse and Lillian Winter; and his nephews, Ryan and Brendan Kroehler.

Bruce's legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the countless memories he created. His laughter, wisdom, and kindness will remain with us always.

Memorial Service will be on Saturday, Nov. 16th, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Zion United Church of Christ in Le Sueur, MN. Visitation will be at the Northview - North Mankato Mortuary on Friday, Nov. 15th, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be held at Elim Welsh Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the family that will then be donated to the Brendan Kroehler Memorial Scholarship Fund.