Neil R. Bruggink

Neil R. Bruggink, 89, of Cedar Grove, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at  Aurora Medical Center Manitowoc County.

Neil was born December 24, 1934, in Cedar Grove, the son of Algernon and Blanch (Obbink) Bruggink. He graduated from Cedar Grove High School in 1954 and went on to serve his country in the United States Army from 1956-1958.

On August 25, 1956, Neil was united in marriage with Carolyn Meinen in the town of Holland. The couple shared 68 years together, creating countless memories.

A 38-year employee of Simplicity Manufacturing, Neil worked as a model maker and retired in 1997. 

A charter member of Faith Reformed Church and avid Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers fan, Neil also was a Pigeon Club member and attended many pigeon shows. He cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren. Over the years, Neil donated 19 gallons of blood to the American Red Cross. Neil sang with the Men of Harmony and Pine Haven Men’s Chorus for many years.

Neil is survived by his wife Carolyn and their children: Randall (Karen) Bruggink, Debra (Michael) Horzen, and Parry (Jennifer Beltran) Bruggink; grandchildren: Tiffany (Keith) Harden, Haley Bruggink, Tyler (Lauren) Stegeman, Josh (Lauren) Bruggink, Dillon (Alyssa) Stegeman, Koltan Bruggink, Karlin Bruggink and Kayden Bruggink; great-grandchildren: Eli, Patrick, Jon and Jay Stegeman, Kade and Everett Harden and Isabella and Lillian Bruggink; brother, Lowell Bruggink; sister-in-law, Delores Bruggink; step-grandchildren, Michael, Michelle, Justin, Christopher; and other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law, Herbert and Edith Meinen; brothers, Wendell, Keith Bruggink, Dale (Marion) Bruggink; sister, Vivian (Herbert) Bartelt; and step-grandchild Brandon. 

A Memorial Service will be held at Faith Reformed Church on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at 12:30pm. The family will receive visitors at the church on Saturday from 11:00am until the time of service. Neil will be laid to rest at Cedar Grove Cemetery at a later date.

A livestream of the service can be viewed by visiting wenig.live/NeilBruggink.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested in Neil’s name to the Wisconsin Honor Flight, Samaritan’s Purse, and World Vision.

The family would like to thank Aurora at Home Hospice and his team, including Courtney, Megan, John, Marianne for their compassionate care of Neil. Also, to Faith Reformed Men’s Retirement group for their love and concern. 

Wenig Funeral Home – Oostburg (920-564-2771) is assisting the family with arrangements. Please visit www.wenigfh.com for online condolences.