Bruce William Priestner, age 55, of Meshoppen, PA, passed away Sunday, July 5th, 2026, at his home.

He was born on December 28, 1970, in Montrose, PA, and was the son of Robert Priestner and the late Alida Vande Weert Priestner. (d. November 23, 2019).

Bruce grew up in South Auburn and was a graduate of the Elk Lake High School class of 1989. After high school he pursued his education at Penn State University, earning an Associate's Degree in Engineering Technology in 1991, a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Engineering in 1993, and a Supervisory Management Certificate in 2003.

Bruce worked at Mr. Z's grocery store in Tunkhannock throughout high school and college. He started his engineering career at the Cargill Beef Plant in Wyalusing, PA, in May of 1994.

When not at work, Bruce was a true down-to-earth man who would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed a hand. He was a lifelong member of the Meshoppen Community Church (formerly known as the Meshoppen United Methodist Church), where he served in many vital roles, including as the long-time treasurer. Bruce also played a pivotal role in designing, budgeting, and building the Sunday school building in 1999. Bruce was a founding member of the Meshoppen Community Food Pantry at the church in 2022. He was a guiding leader to the youth of Wyoming County through his work with the Meshoppen Community 4-H Club, leading the cooking and baking projects from 2012 to 2018. Bruce served the people of Meshoppen by serving on the town council from 2007 to 2025, helping guide the town through many historical events, including the flood of 2011. He was also an administrative volunteer at the Meshoppen Volunteer Fire Company, where he served with distinction as the company treasurer from 2006 to 2022. Bruce would play a crucial role in many projects with the fire company, including many years supporting their booth at the Wyoming County Fair and the many chicken BBQs at the Meshoppen ball field.

Bruce's hobbies included cooking, baking, photography, playing cards and other games with family and friends, and video gaming.

Bruce is survived by his loving family; his father, Robert Priestner of South Auburn, PA; brother David Priestner (Dulcema Nonnemacher) of South Auburn, PA; nephews, James and Douglas Priestner of Meshoppen, PA; great niece, Devyn Priestner, of Kerhonkson, NY; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Calling hours will be held from 5:00-7:00PM on Thursday, July 16th and 1:00-3:00PM on Friday, July 17th at the Meshoppen Community Church,128 Church St, Meshoppen, PA 18630. Celebration of Life services will be held at the Meshoppen Community Church on Friday, July 17th, 2026 at 3:00PM. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Meshoppen Community Church Food Pantry. Donations can be mailed to the Meshoppen Community Church, PO box 159, Meshoppen, PA 18630.

Arrangements were made through the Sheldon Funeral Homes, 8206 Main St., Meshoppen, PA, online condolences made be made at www.sheldonfunerlhomes.com