Bruce O. Sikkila passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026, in Burlington, Wisconsin. He was born on March 19, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Onni and Faith (Pelkola) Sikkila, who settled in Mass City in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Bruce attended school and graduated from Mass City School, where he played basketball for the Mass Rockets.
Bruce earned an associate’s degree at Ferris State College. His professional journey was rooted in his expertise in auto body repair, where he worked for many years, demonstrating a commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Beyond his career, Bruce served honorably for 22 years in the Michigan Army National Guard. He retired as a captain, a testament to his sense of duty and leadership.
Bruce enjoyed hunting and fishing, pursuits that connected him closely with nature and provided treasured memories of time spent with friends and family. He was also a past member of the Masonic Lodge of Mass City, Michigan. Additionally, Bruce had a passion for collecting M & M memorabilia, a unique hobby that brought him joy and helped preserve a slice of Americana.
Bruce married Valerie Leimantine on August 18, 1969, in Bruce Crossing, Michigan—a union that stood as one of his proudest accomplishments. They raised three children in Ewen, Michigan. Bruce is survived by his wife, Valerie, and their children: Todd Sikkila, Barbara (Jim) Kauss, and Robert (Shannon) Sikkila. His role as a grandfather was one he treasured deeply, with grandchildren Kyle (Trista), Amanda, Macy, Ollie, Grady, and Neve, as well as great-grandchildren Kamden, Ily, Kip, and Myles. His extended family includes his sister-in-law, Sandra Sikkila, and brother-in-law George (Chris) Leimantine, as well as nieces Laura, Karen, and Jennifer, and nephews Curt and Mark.
Bruce also lovingly cared for and enjoyed the companionship of his dog, Kelsey, whose loyalty and presence were a constant comfort. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Jane (Ed) Burroughs, brother Robert Sikkila, and his niece Marsha.
A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held on April 28, 2026, at Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 620 Legion Dr, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin. The gathering will begin at 5:00 p.m. and conclude at 5:30 p.m., providing a time for family, friends, and all who knew him to come together and honor his memory.
Bruce O. Sikkila’s legacy is one of service, family devotion, and heartfelt passions. He will be remembered with deep respect and affection by all who had the privilege to know him.
The Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Twin Lakes, WI is honored to serve the Sikkila family.
