It is with profound sadness that the family and community of Ferdinand, Indiana announce the passing of Bruce Fleck, a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and coach. Bruce passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the age of 48. Known for his unwavering dedication to his family, faith, and youth sports, Bruce leaves behind a legacy cherished by all who knew him.
Early Life and Education
Bruce was born on September 10, 1976, in Jasper, Indiana, to Gilbert and Sylvia (Hopf) Fleck. He grew up in Ferdinand, where he cultivated a lifelong love of sports, teamwork, and community involvement. A 1995 graduate of Forest Park High School, Bruce excelled both academically and athletically, earning admiration and respect from teachers, classmates, and teammates alike.
His passion for baseball led him to DePaul University, where he continued his education and proudly represented the DePaul Blue Demons baseball team. During his college years, Bruce also became an active member of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity, forming friendships that remained strong throughout his life.
Family Life
On June 2, 2001, Bruce married Audrey Reckelhoff at St. Anthony Catholic Church, beginning a life together built on love, faith, and family. The couple raised three children—Grace, Grant, and Reid Fleck—who were the heart of Bruce’s world. Whether coaching games, helping with schoolwork, or spending quality time together, Bruce found his greatest joy in nurturing and supporting his children’s dreams and growth.
Career and Community Involvement
Professionally, Bruce worked with Kimball International as a Manufacturing Warehouse Manager, where his leadership, reliability, and work ethic made him a respected colleague and friend.
Bruce’s true passion, however, was coaching and mentoring young athletes. He dedicated countless hours to Ferdinand Little League, Spikes Baseball, and AAU Basketball, teaching not only athletic skills but also the values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Parents, athletes, and colleagues alike remember him as a positive role model, mentor, and guide whose influence extended far beyond the playing field.
Faith and Community Service
A man of deep faith, Bruce was a devoted member of Christ the King Parish and St. Ferdinand Church, and he remained active in the Forest Park Letterman’s Club. His faith informed his life, guiding him in service to his family, friends, and community.
Survivors and Legacy
Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Audrey Fleck; his daughter, Grace, and sons, Grant and Reid, all of Ferdinand; his parents, Gilbert and Sylvia Fleck of Ferdinand; his brother, Brad (Sara) Fleck of Huntingburg; and two nieces, Loren and Hannah Fleck. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ryan Fleck, whose memory Bruce cherished deeply.
Bruce Fleck’s life was marked by dedication, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. His legacy as a coach, mentor, and family man will live on in the lives he touched, the young athletes he inspired, and the community that had the privilege of knowing him.