Bruce M Nopenz

Bruce Mitchell Nopenz, 62, of Silver Lake, Wisconsin, passed away on February 26, 2026 due to complications related to ALS. Born on January 28, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, Bruce lived a life defined by boundless devotion, strong convictions, public service, and an unmistakable zest for conversation, music, and the outdoors.

From an early age, Bruce stood out for his curiosity, confidence, and ability to connect with people. He was proudly Irish in all the best ways and conversation was never small talk for Bruce. He never met a stranger, give him five minutes and he’d know where you were from, what you believed, and why he might agree or disagree. Whether invited or not, Bruce had thoughts to share, but beneath the bold delivery, he wanted the people he cared about to think independently, stand confidently and live fully.

Bruce grew up in Morton Grove, Illinois on a street where many of his family members also lived. He attended Notre Dame High School in Niles, Illinois and pursued higher education with the same determination he brought to all areas of life. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin Madison (Go Badgers) and completed Harvard University’s Certificate in Business Studies, an accomplishment he was proud of.

Over the years, Bruce’s career followed his interests. He worked across several industries including financial services, landscape sales, and ultimately selling commercial HVAC equipment for Gunn & Pegelow. Regardless of the field, he was known for his persuasive presence and ability to build lasting relationships. His leadership extended beyond business into civic life, where he served as Village President of Silver Lake, Wisconsin. In that role, he played an instrumental part in the creation of the Village of Salem Lakes, reflecting his genuine commitment to the community he called home.

Outside of work and service, Bruce embraced life with enthusiasm and personality. He loved music, especially the Grateful Dead, attending concerts, playing guitar, riding motorcycles, racing cars, turkey hunting, throwing darts with “the guys” and gathering around a bonfire where stories grew louder and laughter carried late into the night. A passionate gardener, Bruce transformed his yard into a personal arboretum. Under the banner “Grateful Garlic,” he proudly cultivated & sold garlic. He grew a variety of vegetables, and his Leeks became legendary among friends and family – culminating annually at the neighborhood “Leek Fest” competition. Gardening was not just a hobby, but a source of pride and therapy.

On October 7, 1989, Bruce married fellow Badger Diane Kennedy in Elm Grove, Wisconsin. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter and everlasting friendships; they lived in Massachusetts, Illinois & currently Silver Lake, Wisconsin. Of all his titles, Bruce cherished being a father most. He was endlessly proud of his children, Connor Kennedy Nopenz of Colorado and Tara Lyn Nopenz (Wyatt Shinn) of Montana, and will always be remembered by them as the “Best Dad Ever.”

Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Diane; his children, Connor and Tara; his brother, Brian Nopenz (Teresa Tognocchi) of Florida; his brothers-in-law, Steve (Michele) Kennedy and Jeff (Jennifer) Kennedy, both of California; his aunt, Nancy Stivender of Wisconsin; his nieces, Lauren Nopenz (Tyler Fairley) of Maryland, Morgan Nopenz of Maryland, and Brenna Nopenz (Jolie Robichaux) of Louisiana, and nephew Jake Gillet of Wisconsin.

He was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Howard F. Nopenz Jr. and Eileen Nora (Tully) Nopenz.

Bruce leaves behind rich roots, loud laughter, flourishing gardens, passionate ideals, and conversations that never seemed to end when the company was good. His trees will keep growing. His garlic will keep being planted. And somewhere, we imagine he has already found himself turning another soul into a friend.

Tye-Dye (encouraged) Attire

Sunday April 19th, 2026 Haase-Lockwood Funeral Home and Crematory, 620 Legion Drive Twin Lakes, Wisconsin

Visitation 1:30-2:30pm

Service 2:30pm

3:30pm-6:00pm Jamboree Celebration at Lily Lake Resort

7910 328th Ave, Burlington, WI

In lieu of flowers Memorial donations may be made to the Team Gleason Foundation in memory of Bruce M. Nopenz.

Donations may be mailed or via this link: https://teamgleason.org/

Team Gleason Foundation PO BOX 24493 New Orleans, LA 70184