Bruce T. Waskeiveiz

Bruce Thomas Waskeiveiz, 88, of Terre Haute, passed away at his home on Friday, September 25, 2026. A gifted organist, keeper of family and church history, and friend to animals, Bruce spent his life caring for the people, places, and creatures that mattered to him. He loved good conversation and rarely met a stranger.

Born in Terre Haute on October 24, 1937, to Joseph John and Helen Josephine (Siler) Waskeiveiz, Bruce made his life in the community he called home. He worked as a data processing manager for the City of Terre Haute and Vigo County, retiring in 1995.

Music was one of Bruce’s passions and one of the most enduring gifts he shared. A lifelong member of St. Benedict Catholic Church, he played the organ there for many years, filling a place he loved with music that brought joy and comfort to others. His fascination with the instrument extended well beyond the manuals: he learned to tune and restore organs, and his skill drew calls from throughout the state.

Bruce’s devotion to St. Benedict took many forms. As church historian, he established and maintained its archives, preserving the stories and records of generations before him. He gave generously of his time and resources, tending to the church’s history as faithfully as he contributed to its music. At the time of his passing, he was working on the restoration of its C-sharp bell.

That same care for history shaped his place in the family. A meticulous record keeper, Bruce gathered and shared the details that connected relatives to their past. He helped keep family history alive, making sure its stories and connections survived beyond his years.

Bruce had a tender heart for four-legged friends, especially cats. Throughout his life, he cared for strays, offering food, kindness, and attention to lost and abandoned animals that needed someone. It was another expression of his generous spirit: when someone or something needed care, Bruce was willing to give it.

He is survived by his sister, Frances Bailey of Terre Haute; nieces and nephews, Dusty Derickson, Greg Derickson, Betsy Kile, Daniel Ketner, Brett Bailey, Marty Ketner, and Lisa Dove; and many great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Marge Derickson; and his nephew, Michael Ketner.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to noon on Monday, October 5, 2026, at St. Benedict Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:05 p.m. at the church. Bruce will be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Terre Haute Humane Society or an animal charity of the donor’s choice – a fitting way to forward the kindness Bruce showed throughout his life.