It is with profound sadness that the family and community of Ferdinand, Indiana, announce the passing of Bruce Fleck, a devoted husband, father, son, brother, mentor, and coach. Bruce passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the age of 48. Remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his strong faith, and his love of youth sports, Bruce leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A Life Rooted in Family, Faith, and Sports
Born on September 10, 1976, in Jasper, Indiana, Bruce was the son of Gilbert and Sylvia (Hopf) Fleck. He grew up in Ferdinand, where his passion for athletics, teamwork, and community service first began. A proud 1995 graduate of Forest Park High School, Bruce excelled in academics and athletics, earning the admiration of teachers, classmates, and teammates alike.
His love of the game led him to DePaul University, where he became a member of the DePaul Blue Demons baseball team and proudly joined the Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, creating lifelong friendships that he treasured.
On June 2, 2001, Bruce married Audrey Reckelhoff at St. Anthony Catholic Church, beginning a beautiful partnership rooted in faith and love. Together, they built a family filled with devotion and joy, raising three children—Grace, Grant, and Reid—who were the center of Bruce’s world. He cherished every moment of fatherhood, from coaching on the sidelines to helping with schoolwork or simply spending quality time together. His children were his pride and greatest joy.
Career and Coaching Legacy
Professionally, Bruce brought his work ethic, leadership, and reliability to Kimball International, where he served as a Manufacturing Warehouse Manager. Respected by colleagues, he was known for his dedication, integrity, and the friendships he built within the workplace.
Beyond his career, Bruce’s true passion was found in coaching and mentoring youth. He dedicated countless hours to Ferdinand Little League, Spikes Baseball, and AAU Basketball, leaving a lasting impact on the young athletes he guided. For Bruce, coaching was never just about winning—it was about teaching teamwork, perseverance, and good sportsmanship. To many, he was not only a coach, but a mentor and role model who helped shape lives both on and off the field.
Faith and Community
A man of deep faith, Bruce was a devoted member of Christ the King Parish, St. Ferdinand Church, and actively involved in the Forest Park Letterman’s Club. His faith guided his life and inspired his commitment to family, community, and service.
A Loving Family
Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Audrey, and their children—Grace, Grant, and Reid—all of Ferdinand. He is also survived by his parents, Gilbert and Sylvia Fleck of Ferdinand; his brother, Brad (Sara) Fleck of Huntingburg; and nieces Loren and Hannah Fleck. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ryan Fleck, whose memory he held close to his heart.
Bruce will forever be remembered for his kindness, dedication, faith, and the positive influence he had on countless lives. His legacy as a family man, mentor, and friend will live on through the love he gave so generously and the lives he touched.