Leonard J. "Sonny" Brucki

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Leonard Joseph Brucki, lovingly referred to as “Sonny” to his family, who passed away on June 28, 2026, just shy of his 86th birthday, following his courageous battle with vascular dementia.

He was born in Rhinelander, Wisconsin on July 9, 1940, to Leonard F. and Mona (Myrtle Sly) Brucki. Sonny lived a life defined by dedication, hard work, and a deep love for his family, friends, and his country.

Leonard is survived by his wife Patricia Jean (Gerrard) Brucki, whom he married on October 17, 1961. For over 65 years they were affectionately known to everyone simply as “Pat and Sonny.” Together they built a beautiful legacy raising their four children: Jodi L. and Imelda Brucki of Wisconsin, Judi L. and Johnce Loveless of Oregon state, Jani L. and Gary Conklin of Eureka, IL, and Joann P. Hughes of Easton, IL. Also included in their legacy, Pat and Sonny opened their hearts and home to numerous foster children over the years. Sonny was the proud grandfather of 15 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, with their newest great-grandchild having just been born one week ago, and more births are expected soon. Sonny is survived by his siblings: Rosie Messino Anderson, Bruce Brucki, and Virginia Mertel. He was preceded in death by his parents, and most recently his youngest brother Ronald Brucki, as well as a beloved great-grandson.

A true American patriot, Leonard’s commitment to his country began while still in high school. Leonard enlisted in the U.S. Army, July 1957. He served as a Paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division out of Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. He was also a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. He later served in the U.S. Army Reserves and served as both a Drill Sergeant and a Staff Sergeant, and tank commander. (USAR, Plank Rd., Peru, IL). He also served as a Training NCO for Skills Training at Ft. McCoy, Wisconsin; his military involvement spanning the course of decades. Even in his later years his devotion to his fellow servicemen never wavered, as he proudly served as an Honorary Chaplain and Sergeant-at-Arms for Ottawa American Legion until his passing.

He was a man of immense talent and unwavering work ethic. While raising his family, he committed to earning his GED. Leonard was a highly skilled machinist and tool and die maker, working at both Westclox and Sundstrand Corp. He was a natural leader who cared deeply about the well-being of his colleagues. Serving as a foreman and active member of the UAW, he worked tirelessly to improve employee rights and negotiate fair outcomes, shouldering the heavy weight of those responsibilities with a quiet strength that made his family incredibly proud.

To those who knew him best, Sonny was a quiet, confident, and caring man with a legendary competitive streak. He loved to win and has the trophies to prove it; taking first place in nearly every bowling tournament, horseshoe tournament, and marathon he entered, invariably dominating in his senior age groups as well. He even brought that same competitive spirit to his cornhole games in his later years. Simply put, he was good at everything he did. He loved getting together for family holidays, family picnics, work picnics, game nights with friends, playing poker, or shooting pool. Dedicated to staying fit, healthy, and humorous… he was an all-around great guy to be around. He will be remembered for the ever-present smile on his face, his quick wit, sarcastic sense of humor, and his love for teasing people just to make them laugh. He will be forever missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services will be 1:00 PM on Monday July 6 at Ptak Funeral Home. Visitation will be Monday from 11: 00 AM till time of services in the funeral home. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery La Salle. The Ottawa American Legion Post #33 will conduct graveside honors. Ptak Funeral has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Online condolences and memories may be shared at PtakFH.com