Bruce James Eschliman, 65, of Hutchinson, KS, passed away June 2nd, 2025, at Waldron Place. He was born October 2nd, 1959, in Seward, Nebraska to Larre and Delores Eschliman.
Bruce spent his youth in Gothenburg, Nebraska and graduated from Gothenburg High School in 1977. While in Gothenburg, Bruce attended the First Presbyterian Church. He was also involved in band, playing clarinet, and was the Drum Major for the marching Swedes his senior year.
Bruce made his way to Hastings, Nebraska to attend Hastings College. He graduated with a degree in Music Education in May of 1981. He lived in Hastings and then moved to Grand Island, NE, with stops after in Blaine and Coon Rapids, MN.
Even though Bruce did not pursue a career as a music teacher, he loved music and had a vast record and CD collection. He enjoyed attending concerts and was in two bands as a guitarist and keyboard player. He also had interests in NASCAR, pop culture, and collecting movie memorabilia. Bruce also had a curiosity about electronics and technology and had always “needed” the newest gadget.
Once Bruce had moved from Gothenburg, he had a variety of pets. He was an animal lover with a kind heart for his furry friends. Bruce had a variety of jobs and made friends wherever he lived.
After Bruce moved to Hutchinson, he attended and became a member of the First Presbyterian Church.
Bruce was preceded in death by his mother, Delores Eschliman and his “spouse”, Doris Port. He is survived by his father, Larre Eschliman, Hutchinson, his brothers, Keith (Heidi), Hutchinson, and Clark (Penny), Olathe, KS. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Service will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 6, 2025, in the Chapel at First Presbyterian 201 E. Sherman Street, Hutchinson. Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday at Elliott Mortuary.
Formal committal and graveside service will be at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Mahtomedi, MN, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to First Presbyterian Church, Hutchinson, Hutchinson Animal Shelter, ALS Association, or Hastings College (to benefit the music department), in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.