Bruce R. Cheek, 81, of Machesney Park, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on April 18, 2026. He was born June 5, 1944, in Michigan to Laura (Hodgson) and Verlan “Bud” Cheek.

Bruce married the love of his life, Bonnie Irene McCoy, on December 7, 1963, in Belvidere, Illinois. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and friendship. Bruce was a faithful member of First Nazarene Church of Rockford and Faith Baptist Church of Belvidere.

Bruce enjoyed spending time outdoors hunting and fishing, and he especially loved remodeling cars. His prized possession was his 1966 Chevelle, which he treasured. Known for his patience and determination, Bruce was also a natural jokester, often at the most unexpected moments. He loved leaving funny voicemails that his grandchildren still cherish to this day. When he was bored, he enjoyed calling family and friends just to “make the rounds.” He also enjoyed word searches, Christian music, and bluegrass. Bruce truly never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone he encountered.

Bruce is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Cheek; his children, Robert (Tammy) Cheek and Denise (Jose) Prado; his brother, Tom (Bernice) Cheek; and his grandchildren, Josh (Charisa) Cheek, Brandon (Beverly) Shank, Christian Shank, Alyssa (Tyler) McKenzie, and Bryan Cheek. He is also survived by eight great-grandchildren: William, Bonnie, Lydia, Isaiah, Bellamy, Britton, Lennon “Johnny,” and Bharani “Rani”; his good friends, Ira and Sally; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Laura and Verlan “Bud” Cheek; his brothers, Bill and Phil; his grandson, Michael “Doo” Roberts; and his granddaughter, Kailah Cheek.

A visitation for Bruce will be held Friday, April 24, 2026, at Faith Baptist Church, beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Belvidere Cemetery at noon.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Northern Illinois Hospice for their compassionate and dedicated care of Bruce.