Timothy William Bruzzino, age 51, passed away on June 23, 2026, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, following a long, hard-fought battle with alcoholism that ultimately led to liver failure. While his disease took a heavy toll on his health in recent years, it does not define the entirety of the brilliant, sharp, and uniquely humorous man he was.

Tim was born on January 27, 1975, in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and was raised in his beloved hometown of Elk Grove Village, Illinois. From a young age, Tim possessed a fierce intelligence and a natural gift for technology. This passion led him into a highly successful career in Information Technology, where his sharp mind propelled him into upper-level leadership within his department.

Outside of his professional life, Tim was an avid gamer who found great joy in the immersive worlds of World of Warcraft, as well as a wide variety of games across his PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. He was a massive fan of the Star Wars universe and a dedicated Transformers enthusiast, having proudly built a large collection of Transformers toys over the years. Tim was also a passionate hobbyist who loved home aquariums, keeping a special fondness for the vibrant Siamese fighting fish (Bettas). His love for animals took a delightfully unexpected turn during a routine trip to Petsmart to look for fish, where he ended up falling in love with and adopting his two cherished ferrets, Nibbler and Panda, who brought immense joy and companionship to his life.

Above all, Tim loved his family and friends. He always tried to bring humor into the lives of those around him, and his distinct personality will be deeply missed by all who truly knew him.

Tim is survived by his devoted sibling, Tammy (Mike) Lynn Kabat; his beloved niece, Tiffany Leann Palys; his brother, Michael Bruzzino; special cousin: Joseph (Lisa) Bruzzino; and a community of extended family and lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William and Mary Bruzzino.

Tim will be cremated in Wisconsin. A celebration of his life will be held in Illinois at a later date and location to be determined. Ultimately, Tim will be brought home to rest, where his and his mother Mary’s ashes will be placed together with his father, William, at St. Michael’s Cemetery, reuniting them at last.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.

A memorial/funeral fund has been established in Tim’s name. To contribute, please visit: https://everloved.com/life-of/timothy-bruzzino/.