Barbara M. Bongard

1934 - 2025

Watertown, WI - Barbara M. Bongard, 91, passed away on July 4, 2025. She was born in Lake Mills on May 5, 1934, to Wallace and Marna (Gruchow) Block. They moved to Watertown when Barb was six months old. She attended St. Mark's grade school and Watertown High School, graduating in 1952. She worked at her family's business, Block's Meat Market, after graduating. Barb married Phillip Bongard on February 23, 1957. Barb started working at Merchants National Bank (later Chase Bank) in 1965. She worked as a Bookkeeper, Account Specialist and Personal Banker, retiring in 1995. She volunteered at Watertown Regional Medical Center and was a member of the Elks Club Auxiliary. Barb and Phil were long-time members of St. Bernard's Catholic Church.

In addition to her parents, Barb was preceded in death by her husband, Phil, and sister-in-law, Sue Block. Barb and Phil had two sons, Scott Bongard of Schaumburg, IL and David (Carey) Bongard of Mequon. She is further survived by her brothers, Rich Block of Watertown and Tom (Dawn) Block of Madison; three grandchildren, Ryan (Stefanie) Bongard, Kate (Collin) Filipp and Kendall Bongard. Barb was also very proud of her six great grandchildren, Jackson, William, Cameron and Reid Bongard, and Mollie and River Filipp.

It is fitting that Barb passed away on a holiday. She loved a great party, and she and Phil hosted many cook-outs and gatherings at their home. They enjoyed playing cards and their laughter was contagious. They attended Badger football games in Madison for many years. Barb so appreciated extended family and friends, and especially those who cared for her and visited her at Park Terrace.

Please join the family for visitation at 11:30 a.m. at St. Bernard Catholic Church on Saturday, July 12, 2025, followed by a funeral Mass at 1:00 p.m. Those who wish to remember Barb in a special way may make gifts in her memory to St. Bernard Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements are being thoughtfully managed by Hafemeister Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be left at www.HafemeisterFH.com.