Richard A. Bradley

1946 - 2025

Richard A. Bradley

September 22, 1946 - February 8, 2025

Richard A. Bradley, age 78, of New Lisbon, passed away on February 8, 2025, at the UW Hospital in Madison, Wis. Richard was the son of Russell and Mildred (Chaffee) Bradley and was born on September 22, 1946, in Mauston, Wis.

Richard's life journey began in the small town of Camp Douglas, where he grew up surrounded by the beauty of rural Wisconsin. After graduating from New Lisbon High School, he was drafted into the Army, serving his country with honor In the 715th Military Police Unit Richard served from August 66 to June 68 in Vietnam. Upon returning home, he supported his mother and brother by working on the family farm.

In pursuit of new opportunities, Richard moved to Milwaukee, where he was employed as a welder/fitter by Allis-Chalmers, Advanced Boiler and Tank Co., and Bucyrus-Erie Company until 1992. He belonged to the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers. While employed at Bucyrus-Erie, he received a letter of commendation for heat straightening of the side plate of 2570W Rear Cross Girder. His industrious spirit led him back to his roots, and he purchased the farm adjacent to his mother's, continuing the family's agricultural legacy. It was here that Richard's hands-on skills truly shone as he became known for his adeptness in machining and repairing tractors and inventing equipment.

Richard is survived by his wife, Paulette, of Camp Douglas. He was a devoted father to his children, Cyrus (Brenda) of Camp Douglas, Elizabeth (Bill) Remmel of Vermont, Glen Bradley of Wisconsin, John M. Bradley of Georgia, Angela Vannoy (Syd) of Wisconsin, Benjie Bradley (Heidi) of Necedah, and Charles Browning (Kirsten) of Wisconsin. He was a grandfather to Grant, Genna, Valerie, and Gregory Bradley; Lillian Remmel; and Chase, Nolan, Aiden, and Rose Vannoy. He is also survived by siblings, Keith (Lisa) Bradley of Idaho and Carole Bradley of Idaho. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Beverly Myer; his brother, Robert Bradley; and his brother and sister-in-law, Art (Carol) Bradley.

Beyond his work on the farm, Richard had a profound appreciation for the outdoors. He found solace in the quietude of fishing and the thrill of hunting, activities that allowed him to connect with nature's rhythms. His artistic soul was evident in his love for music and his talent for creating beautiful water and oil paintings. Richard's garden was a place of tranquility and joy, while his interest in photography captured the fleeting moments of beauty in the world around him.

A private graveside interment will take place at a later date in the Strongs Prairie Cemetery. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com.