Bruce L. Tidwell

Bruce L. Tidwell passed away on November 30, 2021 at the age of 59. Bruce was born to Ernest and Lynda Tidwell in Chicago, Illinois. He was a devoted father who raised his two sons, Bradley and Ryan, and he delighted in his role as “Poppa T” to his grandchildren. He was a graduate of Trinity College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota with a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources. He also was a Certified Human Resources Generalist through the DePaul University Advanced Human Resources Generalist Program and a Certified Senior Professional in Human Resources by the Human Resources Certification Institute. Bruce was employed by Will County, Illinois since January 2002 and served as the Human Resources Director at the time of his death.

Bruce loved animals. His first job, while still in high school, was working at a pet shop in Evergreen Park, Illinois; and over the years, he owned several dogs and cats. He is survived by his three constant companions: Delilah, his 11-year-old Maltese/Chihuahua; Talullah, his 9-year-old Chihuahua; and Beulah, his 5-year-old Chihuahua. In addition to his love for animals, Bruce had many other loves. He was a music lover, never missing an opportunity to attend a performance by his favorite artists, especially Dave Matthews Band. He loved to travel -- some of his favorite places were Israel, Rome, Paris, Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Disney theme parks. He loved to garden. He had the most beautiful flower gardens in his yard every summer, and meticulously tended to them. He loved to cook. He found it to be relaxing and therapeutic. He was constantly trying out new recipes and nailed them every time! He loved his extended family, friends and co-workers. He never missed the many holiday get-togethers, always bringing some new dish he had whipped up for us to try. Finally, he loved a good laugh. He was known for his sharp, quick wit and laughter among his family and friends.

Bruce is survived by his two sons, Bradley and Ryan (Bobbi Zabinski), whom he shared with former spouse, Marie Barmes; his father, Ernest; his mother, Lynda; his granddaughter, Raelynn; his grandson, Lincoln; his grandson due in May 2022; his sister, Nancie (Kenneth) Arvin; his niece, Kathryn (Evan) Athanasiou; his nephew, Jonathan (Kaitlin) Arvin; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service, on Saturday, December 11, 2021, at Joliet First Assembly, 1741 Essington Road, Joliet, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Bruce’s church, The Journey Church, 1303 S. Schoolhouse Road, New Lenox, IL 60451 in memory of Bruce.