Bruce was born on April 10, 1952 in Rockford, the son of Ralph and Harriette (Lee) Ballard. Bruce worked as a machinist in the Rockford area for many years. He married Deborah L. Day on June 25, 1969. Bruce loved going fishing and doing woodworking.
Bruce is survived by his wife Deborah; son Marc (Michele) Ballard and their children Chelsey and Tiffany; daughter Julie (Jeff) Gardner and their children Jacob, Paige and Jack; daughter Jennifer (David) Tatum and their children Lauren and Alex; brothers Roger, Tim and Kenny Ballard.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial visitation to celebrate Bruce's life will be Saturday September 17, 2016 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home 8800 N. Alpine Road in Machesney Park. Cremation rites have been accorded.
