It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Burnell “Bernie” Green, age 86, of Monticello, who passed away on January 22, 2025, at the New Glarus Home. Born to Herman and Muriel (Cooper) Green, Sr., Bernie grew up in Beaver Creek, IL, and graduated from Glasford High School. In September of 1957, he married the love of his life, Barbara “Bobbie” Bruce at the Bartonville Methodist Church.
After serving in the U.S. Air National Guard Reserves, Bernie joined the Jaycees and began his career at Laidlaw as a janitor. Through hard work and dedication, he rose to the position of plant manager. His 40+ year career brought him and Bobbie to Monticello, WI, where he became an active member of the community. He served as president of the Monticello School Board, contributed to the Monticello Area Historical Society, and served as Worshipful Master of the Masonic Lodge #310 in New Glarus. Along with his many community roles, Bernie was also a member of the Washington Reformation Church.
He and Bobbie shared a love for travel, visiting nearly every state—including Hawaii—as well as Germany and France. They enjoyed winters as snowbirds in Florida for many years. Bernie loved spending time with his friends and family, always ready to share a story (or five), often retelling his favorites to ensure no one missed out. He was a member of the Antique Wheelers and enjoyed classic cars and hot rods. He was also a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers.
Bernie is survived by his children Bob (Carla) Green, Brian (Debbie) Green, Brad (Sheila) Green, and Brenda (Michael) Ahern, twelve grandchildren; Nicholas, Andrea, Emigh (Scott) Cannaday, Matthew, Sarah Jo, Chad, Jesica (Kevin) Jeremiason, April, Mike, Amanda, Samantha (Jack) Cieczka, and Allison, and eleven great-grandchildren; Sullivan, Millie, Gage, Aria, Bryson, Sonny, Katy, Owen, Kason, Angel, and Austin. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Bobbie in 2018, grandson Alan Green, brother Herman Green, Jr., and sister Peggy Munton.
The family is deeply grateful to New Glarus Home and SSM Hospice for their compassionate care of Bernie and extends their appreciation to the Monticello First Response team for their support. They also wish to thank Bernie’s neighbors; Danny and Merida Baker and Richard and Judy Weichmas, for their watchful care and kindness over the years. A special thanks goes to Pastor Kelly for her devoted guidance and support.
A gathering will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Washington Reformation Church, N6026 Church Rd., Monticello, WI. A memorial service officiated by Rev. Kelly Volk will follow the gathering at 11:30 a.m. at the Washington Reformation Church.
The Zentner-Beal Funeral Home of New Glarus is assisting the family
Online condolences may be given at www.bealfuneralhomes.com.
