Bernard J. Brantner, age 93 of Durand, died Thursday, April 30, 2020 at his home in Durand with his family by his side.

Bernie was born on April 4, 1927 on the home farm in the Town of Lima, rural Durand. He was the son of Leopold and Marie “Mary” (Anibas) Brantner Jr. Bernie grew up on the farm and attended school at Sacred Heart Catholic School in Lima. After school, Bernie farmed for various farms in the area. Bernie married Irma M. Fichtenbauer on November 25, 1946 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church-Lima in Durand. After marriage they lived in Durand, but settled at their current home in 1949, where they raised their family. Bernie worked at Bauer Bros. Motor Company in Durand for over 45 years until health issues required him to retire. In retirement, Bernie enjoyed wood working in his shop named “Wood n Things”. 

Bernie was well known for his ability to repair anything, specializing in cars and other small engines.. He was presented many opportunities to expand his career, but his loyalty was to Bauer Bros. in Durand. Bernie loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Durand, ushering and building things for the church. Bernie was very active in the Pepin County Historical Society, Round Hill and other community services.

Bernie is survived by his wife of 73 years; Irma, children; Roger of Elizabeth, NJ, Ruth (Bruce) Benson of Durand and Bob (Michelle) of Marcellus, NY, 10 grandchildren; Mark, Monica, Brian (Heather), Kirsten (Adam), Angie (Terry), Rick (Kristina), Justin (Paige), Drew (Ashley), Bethany (Rob) and Afton, 15 great grandchildren; six great great grandchildren, one brother; James (Connie) of Prescott, his dog and loving companion; Tedi, and many nieces, nephews, Godchildren, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, one son; Stephen, one grandson; James Brantner, one grandson-in-law; Shon Richardson, one brother; Clare Brantner and one sister; Elizabeth “Betty” Webb.

The family would like to thank Dr. Saleah Obaid, MD and the Eau Claire Medical Clinic staff.  They would also like to thank the Mayo Hospice team especially Dr. Jim Demming and nurses Amanda and Shannon, as well as the rest of the support team for their excellent care.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00PM-7:00PM Thursday, July 2, 2020 at the Rhiel Funeral Home in Durand.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.

Condolences

1. Teresa Silberhorn Schultz June 19, 2020, at 9:55am

   Bernie was a wonderful man who will be missed by many. I have memories from when I was little and my Dad and Bernie building a pontoon together. That one always comes back to me, when I think of him. I cherish the many things that Bernie built for me. RIP Bernie❤️

2. Annette Marie Anibas Pieschel May 12, 2020, at 7:59pm

   A celebration of life to a great cousin
   Of Bernard’s. I loved being on the farm with Aunt Marie and Uncle Leo in the valley. They were my godparents. I send
   My condolences to a great cousin and to
   Irma and family. Love peace and strength
   Through this difficult time. Peace and prayers be with you. Love cousin Annette
   Marie Anibas Poeschel

3. David & Dorothy Anibas May 7, 2020, at 9:31am

   Our sympathy to the family of Bernard, He was a nice
   person , very pleasant. Our Prayers and thoughts of
   him will long be remembered.

4. Joyce reuter May 6, 2020, at 6:47pm

   Prayers and thoughts to you Irma and family on your loss.

5. Mary A Schwartz May 5, 2020, at 2:16pm

   So sorry for you loss always enjoyed visiting with him he will be missed .Will remember the last time we talked he was at the grocery store in the car and didn't matter where I would see him he always would ask about my husband Steve .

6. Larry and Carol Prissel May 5, 2020, at 10:29am

   Our Sympathy to all the Family , Bernard always had a Great smile and Friendly wave.

7. Rick and Carol Richardson May 3, 2020, at 5:35pm

   Sympathy and prayers to the Brantner family.

8. Gary and Judi Bauer May 3, 2020, at 1:15pm

   Our sympathy to Irma and the Brantner family’s
   Keeping you in our prayers

9. Connie (Noll) Gonitzke May 3, 2020, at 11:50am

   My prayers are with all of you. He worked for my Dad at the tavern and was a great friend.

10. Brian Gabriel May 3, 2020, at 8:23am

    What a nice guy! Bernard will be missed.

11. Pegi Fleming May 3, 2020, at 6:47am

    Sorry to learn of Bernie's passing ... but we know he's up there now with the other angels resting in God's everlasting love ... how joyous that must be!
    It was a privilege to know him and he will be missed. Please know we'll keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. Sending hugs to all .. and hope to get to gather soon and honor him at a celebration.
    Pegi and Dale Fleming

12. Robert Radle May 3, 2020, at 12:07am

    My deepest condolences to your families loss.

13. Vicki & Mike Weiss May 2, 2020, at 7:44pm

    Mike and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. Bernie was a wonderful man and he will be missed dearly. We were blessed to have known him.

14. Monica Heitman May 2, 2020, at 7:00pm

    Our deepest sympathy with much love and hugs!

15. Pam LaPean May 2, 2020, at 6:46pm

    My condolences to all the family. He will be missed by all. He was always so kind and had the best smile. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers

16. Barbara May 2, 2020, at 5:39pm

    Bob. Blessings to you and your family. ????????????

17. Amanda and Paul Glaus May 2, 2020, at 9:37am

    Ruth and Justin, so sorry for your loss. Thinking of and praying for you at this difficult time.

18. Joanie (Berger) Gonitzke May 2, 2020, at 7:59am

    So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers.

19. julie webb May 1, 2020, at 9:39pm

    Irma, and Kids, I would like to give you my sympathy and prayers. I know he had a wonderful life with Irma and family and friends He spented a lot of time with Grandma. Take care and god bless you all.

20. thomas biles May 1, 2020, at 8:53pm

    sorry to here of your loss
    prayers to the family

21. Donna West May 1, 2020, at 8:24pm

    Sorry for your loss. I think of Bernie often and have several items he made. He was a wonderful person. He will be missed

22. Kristine Polzer May 1, 2020, at 7:21pm

    So sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. When my parents had the grocery store across the street from Bauer Brothers we saw a great deal of Bernie. He was a wonderful man.

    Sending HUGS to the family
    Sincerely,
    Dave and Kris Polzer

23. Judy John Buchholtz Parr May 1, 2020, at 4:48pm

    oh my lots of hugs sorry for your loss he will remain in a lot of memories great person and wonderful family

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