William Bruce Kenny

William Bruce Kenny, known as Bruce to his family and his many friends, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, June 12, 2026. Born to William and Marjorie Kenny on August 31, 1947 in Rockford, Illinois, Bruce was a graduate of Harlem High School before furthering his education at Illinois State University. Bruce was a proud veteran of the United States Army, enlisting on February 20, 1969 during the Vietnam War and serving as a Military Police Officer while stationed in Germany. Upon return, he met and married the love of his life, Debbie (Duncan) Cashman, on April 24, 1976. Together, they brought three loving children into the world, Chris, Laurie, and Andi, in Machesney Park before building their home in Rockton, IL, where they settled down for the past 36 years. Bruce was a true extrovert, leading to a happy career in sales and delivery for over 50 years, most at Hostess Cake where he left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Bruce was best known for his carefree nature and playful sense of humor - always teasing friends and family, especially his many grandchildren, while bringing smiles and laughter to lighten even the most serious of times. He made sure to keep in contact with family and friends no matter the distance through long phone conversations and FaceTime, a particular favorite of his in recent years. He was a skilled marksman who enjoyed the outdoors, whether it be swimming with his grandchildren in the pool, hunting with friends on his wooded acreage, snowmobiling on the open land, or boating and fishing in Wisconsin and Canada, hobbies he enjoyed mostly for socializing as he valued his family and close friendships deeply.

As an avid history buff, Bruce loved watching old Westerns and documentaries, particularly focused on the military. He often reminisced on his time in Germany, where he served during the war. Being an aviation enthusiast, he loved to attend the Air & Water shows and often talked of his dream to fly.

Bruce successfully navigated the challenge of a house divided between the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers, cheering for the Packers while attending several games with his youngest daughter, and cheering for the Bears with his two other children. He had a talent and joy for singing and whistling, making sure each family member received their birthday song every year.

After happily celebrating 50 years of marriage this year, his final moments were spent in the comfort of his home being cared for by his loving and devoted wife, Debbie. His family was the light of his life, leaving them with many precious memories. He spent his final days making peace with God and emphatically declaring his love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and best friends to all who could hear. Bruce is no longer suffering and has gone to join the Lord in Heaven to be with his parents and brother.

Bruce is survived by his wife, Debbie; children, William Christopher Kenny, Laurie (Jay) Syc, and Andrea (Adam) Muhs; grandchildren, Noah Kenny, Duncan Kenny, Kayla Miller, Isabella Miller, Devon Miller, Taylor Miller, Shea Syc, Lena Syc, Claire Muhs, and Lincoln Muhs; sister Coleen (Ron) Cradic; niece, MiHee (Jay) Pitney; nephew, Paul (Brittany) Eun; cousins, Dana (Becky) Brinkmeier, Doug Brinkmeier, and Robbie Brinkmeier; brothers-in-law, Kenneth (Joyce) Duncan, Dan (Linda) Duncan; sister-in-law, Norlene (Ed) Weinberg; many in-laws, and best friends, Jim (Theresa) Hart and Gary (Kathy) Johnson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Marjorie Kenny; brother, Steven Kenny; nephew Jon Kenny; uncle, Bob Brinkmeier; cousin and beloved friend, Fred Grimes.

A Celebration of Life for Bruce will occur later this summer, near what would have been his 79th birthday and will be announced at a later date.