Bernard Rear, age 100 of Argyle, WI passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. He’s reuniting with his loving wife, Nita, of 79 years.
He was born on June 25, 1925, in Argyle, WI, the son of Burnette and Edna (Hendrickson) Rear. Bernie graduated from Argyle High School in 1944. An athletic standout, he was inducted into the Argyle Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024. He married his high school sweetheart, the love of his life, Juanita Johnson on October 14, 1945, at the West Wiota Church.
Bernie farmed with his wife Juanita until “retirement.” In 1975, they moved into their home on the farmland where he still resided. He loved to celebrate holidays and special events with his family and friends. In particular, he loved all the big hugs and kisses from his grandchildren.
Admired as a resolute businessman, he was blessed with common sense and progressive thinking. He made his mark in the dairy industry installing the latest technology and creature comforts. He was a Lifetime member of NFO.
A man of great integrity, he instilled his strong work ethic and independent spirit in his children. He watched with great pride as his three sons followed in his footsteps. They farmed the land and tended to cattle. His daughters spread their wings, creating beautiful families and successful careers.
With a keen eye for horses, he became a formidable opponent on the quarter horse and harness racing circuits. He cherished the day-to-day care and training of each animal. They flourished under his guidance.
Bernie is survived by his five children Bruce (Maryellyne) of Arygle, Steve (Lynn) of Argyle, Kathy Hackl (Greg) of Florissant, MO, Holly Adams (Gerry) of Brookfield, WI and Gary (Heidi) of Darlington; 22 Grandchildren, 22 Great Grandchildren, and 9 Great-Great Grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews and close friends.
Bernie was the last survivor of his siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents, Burnette and Edna Rear; parent in-laws, William K. and Inga Johnson, Grandchild, Chadd Hackl; Sisters Grace Wagner and Virginia Erickson; Brother Maurice Rear; brother-in-laws Calvin Erickson, John Wagner, Amos, Herbert, Ralph, and Keith Johnson, James Johnson, Cecil Burmeister, Leo McGrath , Harry Anderson, Howard Morgan, Mike Wahl; Sister in laws – Marian Rear, Frances Johnson, Lillian Burmeister, Winona McGrath, Lenore Anderson, Elva Morgan, Donna Wahl, Carrie Johnson and Helen Johnson.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 11:00AM at the Argyle Lutheran Church with Pastor Dan Bohlman officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00AM until 10:45AM. Funeral Service Burial will be in the Woodlawn Cemetery in Argyle, WI.
The family would like to thank Pastor Dan, Agrace Hospice, At Home Caregivers, Lance, and Erickson Funeral Home for their loving care of Bernie.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com
