Bruce James Hickle

Bruce James Hickle August 21, 1950 - February 10, 2017 Bruce James Hickle unexpectedly passed away on February 10th, 2018 at their home on Lake Panasoffkee, often referred to as the "Love Shack". He was 67 years old. Bruce is survived by his cherished wife, Polly, as well as an eclectic group of dear friends and colleagues. Born on August 21st, 1950, the only child of Elmer and Norma Hickle, Bruce grew up in Milwaukee. WI. After graduation from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1973, Bruce married the love of his life, Polly Ann LeClair of Two Rivers, WI in 1974. Bruce and Polly moved to Crystal River, FL in 1982. Bruce had a rewarding career in the nuclear power industry. He received a Master's Degree in Nuclear Engineering from Catholic University in Washington, DC. Bruce worked in nuclear plants in Point Beach, Wisconsin, Omaha Public Power District in Nebraska, Donald C. Cook Plant in Michigan and Florida Power's Crystal River Unit 3 Plant in Florida, where he served as Plant Manager prior to his retirement. In 2002, Bruce began a second career in Public Administration with the city of Bushnell, Florida. After a decade as Utilities Director, he was appointed to the role of City Manager. Bruce served on the Executive Board of the Florida Municipal Power Agency. Bruce truly enjoyed "Making Memories" with family and friends. He was passionate about dancing, playing guitar, learning Spanish, experiencing foreign cultures, as well as expanding his culinary skills. Bruce was a pilot and enjoyed boating, biking, kayaking, scuba diving and fishing. He was a member of the Spirit of Citrus Dancers, the American Association of Mechanical Engineers and the Loyal Order of the Moose. Bruce was a devoted husband and faithful friend. He is survived by his wife, Polly, of 43 years; mother-in-law Carol LeClair of Two Rivers WI; brother-in-laws Joseph (Betsy) LeClair and Peter (Sandy) LeClair of Two Rivers WI; sister-in-laws Trudy LeClair and Nancee (Craig) Rysticken, of Two Rivers WI, Susan (Dan) Schmeichal of Suamico WI; Mary (Mike) Kinahan of Scituate MA; Marsha (Steve) Dvorak of Depere WI; and Christie (Jeff) Jackson of San Diego CA; cousins Denise (Robert) Goetter of Lac du Flambeau WI, Arthur (Marge) Meredith of Waukesha WI, Kimberlee (John) Kinsler of Minneapolis, MN, Karise (Gina Wieler) of Grand Forks ND, Kristi (Tim) Brannick of Zimmerman MN, Kendra Goeltz of Blookington MN; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and dear friends. Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Norma Hickle, as well as his father-in-law, Paul LeClair. Memories of Bruce may be shared at www.purcellfuneralhome.com. Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Purcell Funeral Home, Bushnell, FL.

Bruce James Hickle

August 21, 1950 - February 10, 2018