Bruce Edward Polley's Obituary
Bruce Polley, 75, of Decatur, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, in Decatur.
Born on September 11, 1949, in Decatur to Edward Eugene and Shirley Polley, Bruce was a proud lifelong resident of the area. He served his country honorably in the United States Air Force from May 1969 to March 1975, earning the Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.
Bruce spent most of his adult life working in the railroad industry, a career he took great pride in. He had a deep love for sports, especially baseball, a passion he shared with his father.
He is survived by his daughter, Michelle (Ralph) Smoots of Albuquerque, NM; wife Venda Kelley of Florida; sisters, Mary (Steve) Zeigler of Decatur and Jean Anne VanRheeden of Mt. Zion, IL; stepchildren, Richard Kelley (Jalissa Girdler), Michael Kelley, Christopher Kelley, and Stephanie (Matthew) Greene; eight grandchildren; one great-grandson; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and close friends. A very Special thank you to Amy VanRheeden for giving Dad several rides and always checking up on him.
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Mark Polley, and his brother-in-law Mark VanRheeden.
Bruce will be remembered for his loyalty, sense of humor, and devotion to his family, friends, and country.
A Celebration of life will be Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 3pm – 5pm, at The Wagon in Decatur, IL.
Moran & Goebel Funeral Home is providing cremation services for Bruce. Condolences may be shared with the family at https://www.moranandgoebel.com.
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