Bruce William Taylor (aka Doc Tiny), age 75, of Somerset, Wisconsin, passed away on Nov. 18, 2025, at 6:47 p.m., after a courageous battle with cancer with complications of chemical-induced Parkinson’s. He was surrounded in love by his family and friends.
Bruce was born April 21, 1950, in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, to Bill and Darlene Taylor.
Bruce grew up in rural country environment, working hard and stepping in hand-in-hand with neighbors. This man had such great knowledge on farming, gardening, and animals to just name a few. He had an amazing work ethic and was proud with the success and handwork he put into all he did. Bruce was a good man, who persevered through many of life’s trials and walked with humble pride through life’s delights. He was the most selfless person you could ever encounter, raising his daughter and granddaughters the same way. He passed on his love of the Lord and self-service. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy, a mindset that is hard to find. One that sees people as people, deserving of love and kindness.
Bruce graduated from Osceola High School in 1968. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and was a member of the VFW Post #10818 serving on the honor squad. He married Patsy Jo Steward in 1973 and moved to Lynwood, California, in 1975. They had two children, Christopher and Kathleen. By this time, Bruce was studying management at Fullerton College, Class of 1979. He then studied nursing at Cypress College, Class of 1981. By 1985 the family moved back to East Farmington, Wisconsin, and lived on the hobby farm, until they moved to Somerset on Nov. 1, 2013, till the current time.
Along the way, they acquired other kids throughout the years that were taken into their home at the farm, totaling 12-plus, not including their offspring. The (Walton’s) table was always crowded and full of laughter and love, and the house was never quiet or empty. Through all the weeks, months, and years that they stayed or lived with Patty and Bruce, they always shared experiences, common sense, advice, and nurturing with an unconditional love and guidance he gave to us all. His family was always his first concern and that was his unconditional loving attitude toward everyone. But in a heartbeat, he would give the shirt off his back or give the last he had to help anyone he could.
Bruce had a passion for gardening, woodworking, fishing, computers, genealogy, cribbage and card games. Bruce had driven ambulances for multiple locations, along with teaching at Indianhead College and Holy Family Hospital. Bruce was also a First Responder and was amongst the founding members of County Line First Responders.
While Bruce may not be a physical protecting force for us now, he is a spiritual one who watches over his family now here on Earth.
Bruce is survived by his daughter, Kathleen Taylor; granddaughters, Taylor June Clark and Willow Rose Taylor; and grandson, Cyler Nelson; his sister, Peg Taylor; sister-in-law, Bonnie Taylor; nephews, Justin Taylor and Nathan Taylor; and many extended family and friends.
A Celebration of Life visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m., on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at Bakken-Young Funeral and Cremation Services, 728 S. Knowles Avenue, New Richmond, Wisconsin, with a brief service at 5:30 p.m., concluding with military honors provided by VFW Post #10818 and meal to follow.
An enormous thank you to Lakeview Home Care and Hospice for their wonderful, loving care during Bruce’s last days. Along with a huge thank you to Jen and Jim Bucklew, Josh and Brandi Bell, Monica and Eric, Sarita and Brad, Chantelle and Jacob, Natasha and Tony, Dan Bontu and Badria, and Nick. And a huge thanks to those not listed that humbly came alongside us in support and love during this time. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral and Cremation Services.
He dedicated, served and sacrificed for the stars and stripes! Memorials may be directed to VFW Post #10818, Freedom Park.
