Bruce Otto Ladewig, 80, passed away surrounded by family in Appleton on January 13, 2026.

Bruce was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, the third of five children born to Chester and Rosemary Ladewig (St. Louis). He attended Mary D. Bradford High School, where he met Carol Holm, to whom he was married for over 42 years. Bruce and Carol moved to Appleton in 1968 and eventually built and operated Total Floor Covering together for more than 50 years, a testament to their hard work and dedication. Later in life, Bruce discovered a love for acting, appearing in television advertisements and movies. He delighted in every moment…the cameras, the attention, and the thrill of it all…and was immensely proud of his work. With his natural charm and confidence, there was no doubt he could’ve been a star! In retirement, he continued to enjoy connecting with people while working for Bergstrom as a shuttle driver, where he was always quick with a joke and a genuine smile.

He is survived by his son, Jeffrey Ladewig (Oksan); his daughter, Renee Ladewig-Lathrop (Shane); his grandchildren, Griffin Lathrop (Ellinor), Oliver Lathrop (Emily), Aidan Ladewig, and Leo Ladewig; and his siblings, sister LaRayne (Bergo) and brother Keith Ladewig (Jane); and many nieces and nephews whom he loved. Additional survivors include Charlene Chase and her family, who also held a special place in his heart. Bruce was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Lesley and his siblings, sister Brenda (Ferguson) and brother Allen Ladewig.

Though their marital status eventually changed, Bruce and Carol remained close friends. In his final months, he was surrounded by the care and compassion of his family, especially Carol, who embodied the virtues of forgiveness and loyalty and devoted herself to his comfort and well-being until his passing.

Bruce loved the outdoors and was happiest hunting, being in the woods, or spending time in the sun…especially near the water. He also loved listening to music and treasured time spent out West in the mountains or down South on a sandy beach. Bruce dearly loved his dog, Darby, a loyal and constant companion for many years. Bruce was known for his quick wit, humor, and love of a good pun. Bruce had a full catalog of amazing stories…many of which we still debate as fact or fiction…but ones we never tired of hearing throughout our lives.

Above all else, Bruce loved his children and grandchildren and took great pride in being their dad and grandpa.

Bruce, Dad, Grandpa, Dude, BooBoo, Papa—we love you!

In true Bruce fashion, we’re sure he’d leave us with a smile and is already asking around to see if anyone happens to have a little hunting land.

We are deeply grateful to the ThedaCare Hospice Team for their kindness, respect, and loving care of our dad in his final days. In accordance with Bruce’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. The family invites you to leave a message of condolence in the guestbook on the funeral home website.