Richard Bruce Wilson

Richard “Bruce” Wilson, age 91, peacefully passed away with his family by his side on July 20, 2026, in Wichita, Kansas.

Born April 5, 1935, in Herington, Kansas, to Arleon Crary Wilson and Richard Byron Wilson, Bruce spent his early years in Herington, Wichita, Plainview, and Kansas City, Kansas. He graduated from Wyandotte High School and continued his education at Kansas City, Kansas Junior College before transferring to Washburn University in Topeka. A proud member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, he earned his bachelor’s degree in economics. During his time at Washburn, he worked at the State Social Welfare Psychiatric Treatment Center, supporting children with compassion and dedication.

Bruce began his professional career as an independent insurance claims adjuster for nearly 20 years before joining Shelter Mutual Insurance Company, where he served as a multiline adjuster and senior claims supervisor. He retired after 21 years of service.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Bruce honorably served his country. He spent 12 years in the U.S. Navy, retiring from the Naval Air Station in Olathe, Kansas, where he served as a “weekend warrior” in an anti‑submarine warfare squadron. His commitment to service remained a point of pride throughout his life.

Bruce had a lifelong passion for model railroading. He was an active member of the Wichita Area Garden Railroad Society and contributed to the creation of the Gene Spear Garden Railroad at Botanica Gardens in Wichita. He also volunteered at Watson Park, where he operated the train and enhanced the experience for visitors by building and installing railroad crossing signs and a 12‑foot wooden water tower—ensuring the ride looked and felt like a true railroad.

Raised in the Presbyterian Church, Bruce later joined the United Methodist Church when he married the love of his life, Carolyn Sue Harmon. They were active members of Grace United Methodist Church and later joined Chapel Hill United Methodist Church in Wichita.

Bruce is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn Sue Harmon Wilson; his daughter, Kimberly Sue Wilson; his grandson, Devin Blake Wilson; his father, Richard Byron Wilson; his mother, Arleon Crary Wilson; and his brother, James Virgil Wilson.

He is survived by his sons: Kevin and Aimee Wilson of Colorado Springs, CO; Tracy Wilson and Lori of Sedgwick, KS; Monte and Andrea Wilson of Ft. Mill, SC; Eric and Amee Wilson of Richmond, TX; Matt and Heather Wilson of El Dorado, KS; his brother‑in‑law Harold “Buddy” Harmon and wife Linda of El Dorado, KS.

He leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 5 great‑grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Bruce lived a life marked by service, curiosity, craftsmanship, and devotion to family. His legacy endures in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the countless memories he leaves behind.

Visitation will be from 5:00 -7:00pm, Thursday, August 6, at Cozine Life Events Center. Funeral service will be at 1:00pm, Friday, August 7, at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church. A burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery. Services by Cozine Memorial Group – Broadway Mortuary.