Bruce Daniel Whitaker, 56, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, April 11th, 2025. He was born on August 5th, 1968 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He attended Most Precious Blood Catholic School, then went on to graduate from North Side High School in 1988.

Bruce was the Maintenance & Transportation Supervisor for Community Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Indiana, where he dedicated his talents and time to serving others. He took great pride in his work, held deep respect and affection for his coworkers, and truly cared for the community he served. His commitment and compassion left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Before joining the food bank, Bruce worked as a truck driver for Lee Supply and F. McConnell & Sons, where he was known for his reliability and strong work ethic.

Bruce is preceded in death by his loving parents, Rosemary and Charles Whitaker Jr. He is survived by his beloved companion of 11 years and friend of 40 years, Sheri Rex; his sister Cheri Whitaker and brother Chuck (Judy) Whitaker; his children Camielle Gebhart, Daniel Gebhart, Tyler Whitaker, Josh Geise, Jessica Goodpaster, and Kaeti Mechelle Clarin; eight cherished grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Bruce's passion for communication and connection began early in life. He shared many meaningful moments with his father on amateur radio, a hobby he continued with pride, earning his operator license in May 2007 under the call sign KC9LPQ. Together, they delighted in repairing vintage stereo equipment and radios-disassembling, restoring, and rebuilding them with care and precision. For Bruce, this work was not just a hobby but a form of therapy, a way to bring broken things back to life.

Bruce and Sheri shared a deep love of exploration and discovery. They traveled often-sometimes on spontaneous day trips, other times on long, peaceful vacations. They collected vinyl records, enjoyed music, attended auctions, estate sales, and car shows, always finding joy in the little things and the time spent together.

Bruce will be remembered for his quiet strength, his generous heart, and the steady presence he offered to those around him. He lived a life of service, curiosity, and love-and he will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne. Calling will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. with the recitation of the Most Holy Rosary at 10 a.m.

In memory of Bruce, please consider making a donation to Community Harvest Food Bank, 999 East Tillman Rd., Fort Wayne IN 46816.