Fr. Bruce Clanton, SDS, faith leader in Racine, dies at 80 – Racine County Eye
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Fr. Bruce Clanton, SDS, died on May 22, 2025, at the age of 80. He was a beloved figure in the Racine community, known for his lifelong service, compassion, and unwavering dedication to youth ministry and education.
Born Feb. 4, 1945, in Sacramento, California, Bruce was the son of Mimi and Russell Clanton. He is survived by his brothers, Steven (Lori) Clanton and Michael (Julie) Clanton; cousin, Diane (Ed) Owen; and many others whose lives he touched.
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Inspired at a young age by the life of St. Francis, Bruce pursued a religious vocation. He entered seminary in St. Nazianz, Wisconsin, professed as a Salvatorian in 1966, and was ordained a priest on April 1, 1978.
Fr. Bruce combined his vocations of teaching and ministry to reach youth in unique and lasting ways. His career began at St. Catherine’s High School, where he co-founded Angel Alley. He launched YouthChurch at Holy Name, later expanding the ministry with a drop-in center at St. Rose, hosting recreational and spiritual activities for young people across the city.
He went on to establish Matthew 25 Ministry and Casa Cesar Chavez on Hamilton Street, serving Latino teens and introducing Homeboyz Industries under the slogan “Something Good from the ’Hood.” YouthChurch later continued at St. Patrick and Cristo Rey. He taught English at San Juan Diego and participated in the St. John XXIII tutoring program, while also visiting public schools with reading programs.
Fr. Bruce’s ministry extended beyond the church. He supported young people by visiting schools and jails, attending baptisms and court hearings, organizing retreats, producing youth-made films through “Drive-By Shooters,” and compensating participants for reading and learning. His impact was felt across generations and neighborhoods.
Recognizable for his distinct style—often seen in his colorful car adorned with an image of the Virgin Mary—Fr. Bruce embodied joy, humility, and service. In his later years, he was often accompanied by his dog, Bubu, and could be found visiting bookstores, coffee shops, and parks.
He will be remembered for his generosity, his commitment to youth and justice, and his ability to reach hearts through both words and actions.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1101 Erie St., Racine. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home, and Thursday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass. Interment will follow at St. Nazianz Cemetery.
The Mass will be live-streamed and may be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/live/p1PAbLGqLYc
Memorials to the Fr. Bruce Legacy Fund have been suggested.
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