In Loving Memory of Bruce Pershke

June 24, 1949- April 11, 2026

Bruce Arthur Pershke, 76, a man of deep integrity and lifelong service, best known for his humorous and often long-winded stories, passed away on April 11, 2026, following a bicycle accident.

Growing up in Dwight, North Dakota, Bruce was the son of Arthur and Genevieve Pershke and the second of six children. He spent his youth building forts in the woods, digging tunnels in the snow, and helping his father transform a salvage yard into a thriving horse ranch. This experience fostered a lifelong passion for the Arabian horse community, where he later became a respected competitor and sportsman, notably instructing his horse, Chaos, to win the Legion of Merit in 1974.

A proud alumnus of North Dakota State University (go Bison!), Bruce earned his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and M.S. in Engineering Administration from Bradley University. Bruce’s education quickly led to leadership roles in numerous Fortune 500 companies. In 1988, Bruce started his consulting firm, PBDI. He had a unique ability to listen to clients’ issues, understand their challenges, and develop thoughtful, strategic solutions—many of which remain in use today. His vision led to the advancement of RecruiterMagic and later RecruiterLogix, innovative software adopted by healthcare firms across the country. Because of his insight, honesty, and integrity, clients trusted Bruce not only with solutions but also with guidance on broader operational and strategic decisions. He developed long-term relationships with major clients that spanned 30+ years, many of which continued after his 2014 retirement.

In Tennessee, Bruce was a pillar of the Hendersonville Rotary Club, honored as Rotarian of the Year (1991–1992) and recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow. In his last 12 years in Mesa, Arizona, he found a vibrant second family at Sunland Village, where he led the hiking club and shared his love for the "quiet sanctuaries" of the natural world with dear friends. Bruce was a true outdoorsman who found his greatest peace while hiking, kayaking, and camping under the stars.

At the heart of Bruce’s life was his nearly 40-year partnership with his wife, Jane Rogers. Infectious laughter, deep mutual support, and a shared thirst for adventure defined their relationship. Together they traveled extensively, exploring the world with the same curiosity Bruce brought to everything he did. In retirement, Bruce and Jane camped across the U.S. and Canada on their infamous “Mooch Tours,” curating their stops around visits to family and lifelong friends. Whether they were navigating international destinations, the trails of the National Parks, or throwing parties, Bruce was a devoted husband who took immense pride in the life and family they built side by side.

To his daughters, Sarah and Shannon, he passed along his values of service, commitment, and an adventurous spirit. Bruce prioritized involvement in his daughters' lives, spending years attending school and community events; taking them camping, hiking, and boating; and later planning outdoor adventures with their own families. He was a devoted grandfather to Maggie, Charlotte, Thomas, Ash, Izzy, and Sophia, delighting in passing down his wisdom and wonder to the next generation, always with a stop for ice cream along the way.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lee Pershke (surviving spouse Sharon, Killen, AL); and his sisters, Pauline Jeneva and Marlene Pershke (surviving spouse Shawn Zimmerman, Mesa). He will be deeply missed by his wife, Jane Rogers; his daughters, Sarah Grant (Atlanta) and Shannon Weston (spouse Derrick, Baltimore); his six beloved grandchildren; his siblings, Charlene Pershke (spouse Glenn Allen, Nashville) and Jon Pershke (spouse Ann, Raleigh); and his nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Bruce will be held at a later date with details to be announced in the coming months. Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sierra Club or the Rotary Foundation. The family encourages you to honor Bruce’s memory by contacting your elected officials and advocating for the protection of our public lands, water rights, and National Parks. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.

“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.” — John Muir