Robert J. "Bob" Dreier

Robert J. Dreier, age 72, of Tomah, Wisconsin, passed away May 30, 2025. He was born August 13, 1952, to Gerald and Mary Dreier in Tomah. In 1969 Bob convinced the neighbor girl, Rita Gorham, to spend the next 55 years together. They wed on July 1, 1972 and began their farming journey together.
As a farmer, Bob's connection to the land was evident in every aspect of his life. His commitment to agriculture extended beyond his own fields as he became a beloved figure in the community through his involvement in local events and educational initiatives. In 1994 and again in 2008, Bob, Rita, and Mitch proudly hosted the dairy breakfast. Fostering a new generation's appreciation for farming. He was known for giving numerous school tours and hosting the Tomah FFA Corn Maze for four years.
In 1978, Bob built what would become "Heartache" a Farmall M with a V8 Engine. Since he was an avid John Deere enthusiast he didn't want to mess up a good tractor in the event the pulling tractor was a flop. His first pull was at West Salem and he won his class! The tale of Heartache continued and flourished for many years. In Bob's later years, his speed slowed to a more leisurely hobby, tractor rides. Hosting an annual Labor Day ride since 2007, some years having over 100 people and 80 tractors in attendance.
Aside from farming and tractor pulling, Bob was a Charter Member of the La Grange Fire Station starting in 1978 and serving as Station Chief for over 17 years. In his tenure they also had gatherings outside of firefighting. There was the group of four that golfed every Sunday. The annual awards night where many firefighters were reminded of their mishaps by the creative awards they received. The Super Bowl Potluck and a good game of cards. Fixing equipment had its own creative touch, as when they painted a firetruck orange. Much to the dismay of the Fire Chief!
Bob was a friend to many and you could count on finding him in the shop ready to lend a helping hand. Many projects found themselves in the Dreier's Shop. There wasn't a challenge the boys backed down from. Even if it meant a repeat trip or two through the shop. The shop crowd would change through the years, but one thing stayed the same, it was a place of laughter where everyone was welcome, cold pop in the fridge and popcorn burning in the microwave. Bob will be remembered for his bubbly personality, knowledge of all things John Deere, riding in the gator with Remington, Mabel, and two grandpuppies.
Bob will be dearly missed by his wife, Rita, his son, Mitch (Jessica) Dreier, grandchildren, Remington and Mabel Dreier, sister-in-law, Jean (Mike) Bailey, the Aussies, Paisley and River, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 5, 2025, 11:00 a.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Pastor Dave Dahl will officiate. Burial will be held in the La Grange Cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation Wednesday, June 4, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Family and friends are also invited for visitation Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Online condolences are available at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.