David Bruce Sullivan

David Bruce Sullivan, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away on March 9, 2025, at Lakeland Hospital in Elkhorn at the age of 81. He was born on March 16, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph Theodore and Esther Evangeline Sullivan. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Dennis Gilbert Sullivan.

David is survived by his loving wife, Prudence Sullivan; his sons, Christopher and Bryan (Jennifer); his cherished grandchildren, Eleonora and Ean; and niece Denise (Steve) Hager. His legacy of love, faith, and generosity will live on through his family and many others whose lives he touched.

A man of many talents, David grew up in Chicago before moving to Park Ridge in his high school years. He was a dedicated athlete at Maine Township East High School, excelling in track and cross-country and earning numerous accolades. His passion for sports continued into his college years at William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri, where he competed in wrestling, football, and cross-country while majoring in biology. David was head of the cross country team which set, and retains, the college’s record in the sport dating back to 1850.

David married the love of his life, Prudence, at the First Baptist Church of Park Ridge. Together, they built a beautiful life of 57 years filled with love, faith, and adventure.

David had a distinguished 48-year career as a Cutting Tool Engineer, Advisor, and Corporate Trainer, working for Metal Removal (Kennametal) and traveling extensively in his role. Among his contributions to the company, David designed custom parts for the aerospace industry and NASA. Throughout his career, David’s professionalism, work ethic, and dedication made a lasting impact on those who worked alongside him. Twice he was awarded Top Salesman in the nation.

Outside of work, David had a deep love for nature and the outdoors. Ireland held a special place in his heart, and over the years he traveled there seven times where he connected with his ancestral roots in County Kerry, and discovered his family’s historic castle dating back to 640 A.D. He was also an avid nature photographer, capturing thousands of images of wildlife, landscapes, and the beauty of creation. A collector of nature figurines, especially bears, deer, and cardinals, David found joy in the simple wonders of life.

David’s generosity extended beyond his family and friends. He created a "ministry of photo cards," producing over 50,000 handmade cards featuring his nature photographs and inspirational quotes. These cards were donated to churches and charitable organizations, and used in fundraisers to support causes like scholarships for youth summer camps, and world charities. David’s selflessness and kindness were recognized in an article in Our Wisconsin magazine, highlighting his contributions to the community.

In retirement, David spent much of his time helping others and supporting many charities. He was heavily involved in Meals on Wheels, BigWill, Linn Presbyterian Church, and helping neighbors with household chores and repairs.

A lifelong follower of Christ, David was baptized at the Northshore Baptist Church of Chicago and lived a life grounded in Christian faith and tradition. He passed this faith on to his children, grandchildren, and all those he encountered, inspiring others through his example of love and kindness.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Linn Presbyterian Church in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 2 p.m. The theme of the service will reflect David’s love for Chicago sports teams and Jimmy Buffet (corresponding attire is encouraged). In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be sent to Linn Presbyterian Church (W3335 Willow Rd, Lake Geneva, WI 53147) or the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia (9535 Linton Hall Road, Bristow, VA 20136 or online at osbva.org).

The family wishes to thank the staff of Aurora Medical Center at Mount Pleasant for their compassionate and dedicated care during David’s last days.

David is laid to rest at Bloomfield Cemetery, where his memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew him:  a man whose generous spirit left an indelible mark on the world around him. He will be deeply missed by all.

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Derrick Funeral Home of Lake Geneva is honored to be assisting the Sullivan Family.