Bruce Jacob Pfister, aged 81, of Wisconsin Rapids and DeForest, Wis., died on Jan. 20, 2022. His love of the natural world and animals stemmed from his upbringing and his parents' teachings and was further developed throughout a lifetime of experiences. He passed this same love on to his children and grandchildren.

Bruce graduated from UW-Madison, with a B.S. in Civil Engineering and soon after began a 43-year career with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, where he advanced to the rank of Chief Geotechnical Engineer for the State of Wisconsin. After retirement, he began a second career further pursuing his varied interests and discovering new ones.

Bruce gave of his time and talents freely throughout his life. He was also an active father and grandfather. He enjoyed children and was a role model not only to his own children, but for many others as well.

Integrity, kindness, compassion, humor, and service to others exemplifies Bruce's way of living, and is a good reminder for all of us. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.

Bruce is survived by his wife Daloris of nearly 59 years; his children Keith (Karen) Pfister, Craig Pfister and Laura Pfister (Mike Lewis); his five precious grandchildren; Jacob, Sophia and Gavin Pfister, and Rachel and Abigail Lewis; his two brothers Don and Jerome; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

A private burial was held with immediate family at East Wiota Lutheran Cemetery. A celebration of life was held at a later date. The family has requested that memorial donations be made to the Humane Society of Dane County (www.giveshelter.org); Boy Scouts of America Samoset Council (https://www.samoset.org/); or Save the Children (https://www.savethechildren.org/)To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

.