Bruce A. Pecka, 80, of DeKalb, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, January 19, 2026.  Born on September 30, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of Frank and Marie (Aird) Pecka.  On June 20, 1970, Bruce married the love of his life, Glenda Garretson, at the First United Methodist Church in Streator, Illinois.  Together they built a devoted, joyful, and enduring partnership of more than 55 years. 
Bruce dedicated 34 years to teaching physical education at DeKalb Middle School, retiring in 2001.  He was a proud and passionate coach, leading football, baseball, and basketball teams for the DeKalb schools.  His influence extended far beyond the gym—he shaped young people with his steady guidance, humor, and belief in hard work. 
A lifelong athlete himself, Bruce’s love for sports began early.  He was a standout pitcher at Gage Park High School in Chicago, IL, where he led his team to a city championship at Wrigley Field.  His talent earned him an athletic scholarship to Northern Illinois University, and in 1964 he set a single season ERA record of 0.76—a mark that still stands today.  At just 17 years old, he was offered a professional contract to pitch for the Chicago White Sox, a testament to his remarkable ability on the mound.  Bruce especially cherished the friendships, competition, and camaraderie that came with the game, carrying that passion throughout his life. 
He also found great joy in the traditions he shared with the people he loved.  Bruce looked forward each year to traveling with Glenda to White Sox spring training in Glendale, Arizona, a trip that combined his love of baseball with time spent with his favorite companion.  He also treasured attending the IHSA boys basketball tournament with close friends and family, a yearly gathering filled with excitement, laughter, and memories that meant the world to him.  Another highlight he looked forward to each year was his family’s annual summer vacations, where he enjoyed visiting friends and relatives; creating lasting memories with those he loved. 
Above all, Bruce was a family man.  He is survived by his wife, Glenda; his children Brian (Kathryn) Pecka of Kalamazoo, MI, Lindsey (Bato) Jovanovic of Prospect Heights, IL, and Chad (Sharahi Rodriguez) Pecka of Chicago, IL; and his beloved grandchildren Marcus, Emily, Mia, and Lainey, who brought him tremendous pride and joy.  He is also survived by his brothers Gary (Marlene) Pecka of Colona, IL, and Scott (Peggy) Pecka of Crestwood, IL; his sisters Carole (Ernest) Esposito of DeKalb, IL, Dianne (George) Roumpos of Darien, IL, and Sandy (Daniel) Wrobel of Orland Hills, IL; and many nieces and nephews who adored him. 
He was preceded in death by his parents. 
Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home in DeKalb, IL. 
The Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 26, 2026, at Anderson Funeral Home in DeKalb, IL, with Rev. Jonathan Crail of First United Methodist Church officiating. 
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Pecka Family in care of Anderson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 605, 2011 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, IL 60115.