Bruce L. Black

Bruce L. Black, 93, of Hastings died on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Perkins Pavilion, Good Samaritan Society in Hastings. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Hastings with Pastor Micah Gaunt officiating. Apfel Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation. Online condolences can be sent to www.apfelfuneralhome.com.

Bruce was born on November 13, 1931 to John and Gladys (Funk) Black in Belleville, KS. He grew up in Belleville and attended Belleville Public School where he graduated in 1945. He enlisted in the Army on July 13, 1950 and traveled to France, Korea, and Okinawa, Japan during his service. He was honorably discharged on June 18, 1954.

He graduated from trade school in 1958, majoring in automotive diesel engines. In 1959 he started working at Sherman’s Service Center in Hastings where he worked for 37 years until the business burned down. He then went to work at Wal-Mart starting in 1992 as an overnight stocker. After 20 years he retired in 2012.

Bruce was united in marriage to Mary Ann Graue on September 20, 1959 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Chester, NE. To this union three sons were born, John, James, and Jerry.

Bruce enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and canoeing with his family. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Hastings.

He is survived by his sons: James L. Black of Hastings, Jerry L. (Deb) Black of Racine, WI; grandchildren: Mandy (Josh), Sarah (Evan); great-grandchildren: Conner, Killian, Zaida, Ezekiel, and Anja; nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary; son: John; brothers: Hank, Dick, Tom; and sister, Jean.