Bruce E. Peterson

     A Celebration of Bruce’s life will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege with Pastor Murray Jones officiating. Following his memorial service, he will be laid to rest at Prairie Home Cemetery, Holdrege.

     Bruce E. Peterson was born in Holdrege to Richard L. and Wilma Peterson on January 20, 1951, the second of four sons. He went to be with his Lord and Savior at the age of 75, on September 16, 2026 in Kearney, Nebraska.

     Bruce attended school in Holdrege, graduating with the class of 1969. He then attended the University of Nebraska at Lincoln for a time. Eventually he made his way back to Holdrege where he met and married the love of his life, Cindy J. Ommert. They were blessed with two daughters, Michelle and Allison. Bruce settled into work with KN Energy which took his family to Milligan, Nebraska and finally Arapahoe, Nebraska. He enjoyed working until he was forced to medically retire, following a battle with brain cancer. Later in life, he again found pleasure in working, helping his cousins with harvest.

     Bruce loved being a part of his church community and found a church family wherever life took him. His faith and the people he met through church always remained an important part of his life. He had a beautiful voice and sang in many church choirs and at home to his daughters. Later in life, he found fulfilment in going on mission trips.

     He always had a very humble, compassionate and giving spirt and was a true example in the way of loving and forgiving. Bruce always had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed it in so many ways. He was passionate about hunting, fishing, boating and camping. He also enjoyed scenic vacations and searching for Native American artifacts. Many of his fondest memories were made outdoors with his family and friends.

     Most of all, Bruce cherished his family. He was a proud father to Michelle and Allison. He found so much joy in providing, teaching and supporting their various interests. Of particular note, Bruce found pride and joy watching their sporting events, even officiating countless softball games. Though he always worked hard to provide for his family, he always made time for sports, vacations, weekends at the lake and helping with homework. One of the proudest days of Bruce’s life, was the day he became a grandpa. His granddaughter, Summer always held a very special place in his heart, and he was a beloved Papa to her. The love and joy that she brought to his life was tremendous and super special.

     Though Bruce faced many significant challenges throughout life, he always lived with a positive attitude. He remained strong in his faith and touched so many lives with his compassion, joy and humility. He was instrumental in passing along the love of Jesus to his family and others. His warm smile, sparkling eyes and fun, if somewhat onery personality continued to touch others until the day he went to Heaven. He will be remembered for his dedication to serving God, his love for family, friends and strangers alike and his appreciation and love of life. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, adventures and memories that will live on in the hearts and memories of those who were blessed to know him.

     Left to cherish his memory and legacy are his daughters: Michelle Peterson of Kearney; and Allison (Aaron) Palik of Seward, along with their daughter, Summer Palik; his brothers Doug (Chris) Peterson of Colorado Springs; Scott (Judy) Peterson of Lincoln; and Greg Peterson of Omaha; a brother-in-law, Randy (Jennifer) of Axtell; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

     He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wife, Cindy Peterson.

     Memorials in Bruce’s memory are kindly suggested to the family.

     Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com

     The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.