Bruce Arthur Klunzinger

He was born on December 2, 1948 in East Lansing, Michigan. A devoted father, grandfather, physician, and friend, Bruce will be remembered for his warmth, steady presence, and gift for making others feel seen and encouraged.

A lifelong Spartan, he earned his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and was a member of the first graduating class of Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine. He went on to become a respected ophthalmologist in Lansing, known for his skill, kindness, and calming sense of humor. In 2015 Bruce became a McLaren Greater Lansing Legacy Award Recipient.

An avid golfer from a young age, Bruce was named the top high school player in the state and went on to compete in the national championship and earn a golf scholarship to the University of Florida before returning to Michigan State. In 1979 he organized a weekly golf group that is still playing together. Bruce also enjoyed travel with family, Torch Lake, the Big Island of Hawaii, Portlock, Ontario, Disney World, music, and Spartan basketball. After his Parkinson’s diagnosis, he continued to serve others by participating in mid-Michigan Parkinson’s groups that brought people together through golf outings, boxing classes, and fellowship.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Eileen, and his brother, Thomas Klunzinger. He is survived by his partner, Susan Smith; his son, Jeffrey Klunzinger; his daughter, Carolyn Kulpa (Andrew); four grandchildren: Elska and Wells Klunzinger and Olivia and Samantha Kulpa; and his brothers, James (Roseanne) and Gary Klunzinger.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Gorsline Runciman East Chapel, 1730 E Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI 48823.

The family of Bruce Klunzinger would like to thank the staff at Sparrow Hospital and Stoneleigh Hospice of Lansing who helped Bruce in his final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, parkinsonsmi.org