Smsgt William Arflack, Usaf Ret

Senior Master Sergeant (SMSGT) William Bruce Arflack, United States Air Force, passed away on Monday, 12 July 2021, at his residence in Benbrook, Texas.

Committal services:  11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 10 August 2021, at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy., Dallas, Texas 75211.

Bruce was born on 5 April 1943 in Morganfield, Kentucky to Claude and Ruby (McDaniel) Arflack. He grew up in Tolu, KY and graduated from Crittenden County High School in Marion, KY.  After graduation he joined the US Air Force on 7 Feb 1962 and served honorably for over 21 years.  He retired from the Air Force on 31 October 1983.  As a telecommunications specialist Bruce’s overseas assignments included tours in West Germany and in Thailand during the Vietnam War and he ended his career as a senior enlisted leader at the former Carswell Air Force Base.  After his service in the US Air Force, Bruce began a second career in the US Postal Service, where he worked for 14 years until his retirement on 15 March 1999.

Bruce’s numerous military awards include: the Meritorious Service Medal; US Air Force Commendation Medal w/3 OLC; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal w/device; Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/device; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal; and US Air Force Good Conduct Medal w/6 devices.

It was during his first assignment to West Germany that Bruce met his lifelong spouse, Ilse Elisabeth Seibert.  They were married on 30 July 1965 and celebrated their 55th anniversary in 2020.  Bruce was adored by his German family and remained in close contact throughout his life.

The son of a Kentucky farmer, Bruce achieved great success in his life through hard work, discipline, dedication, and the persistent encouragement of his wife. He is remembered for his love of life and homespun, southern humor. He loved talking to people. His best moments were spent visiting and laughing with friends and family.

Bruce was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ilse, on 12 January 2021.  He was also preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Carolyn and her husband, Lt Col Larry Hodge (US Air Force).

Bruce is survived by his brothers, Kenneth (Janice) of Madison, AL, and Carl (Patty) of Memphis, TN.  He also has numerous nieces, nephews and distant relatives within the United States and Germany who love him dearly.