from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Bruce Wiltsie, 57, of Oakland Park, Fla., died Feb. 6, 2012, at his home.

He was born Feb. 2, 1955, to Clinton and Andrea (Jost) Wiltsie in Tomah, Wis. He was raised on the family fruit farm and worked at the farm and fruit stand. He was a 1973 graduate of Tomah High School.

Mr. Wiltsie was a Standardbred trainer, driver and owner in Chicago, the Quad Cities and St. Louis in the winters. He was currently employed as second trainer by the David Schneider Racing Stable at Pompano Park.

He had his own business where he made and repaired harness race bikes and wheels. He also previously owned and operated B. Wiltsie Equine Transport and hauled horses (and boats) from Canada and California through Chicago to New York, New Jersey, Florida and between.

He is survived by his son, Tarry (Meghann Madigan); grandchildren, Gunnar, Kamryn and Maddy Hammond, mother, Andrea; girlfriend and life partner, Suzi Cooper; sister, Connie (Tom) Johnson; and nieces, Jamie Johnson and Tessa Jagger. He was preceded in death by his father, Clinton.

A celebration of Mr. Wiltsie’s life was held on the beach on Sunday (Feb. 12). A memorial will be held at Pompano Park on March 5 and also at Balmoral Park on March 24.