Ronald K. Bessert

Ronald K. Bessert, age 96, a longtime resident of the Reedsburg and Mauston, Wisconsin areas, passed away on January 5, 2026, at his daughter's home in Lewisville, Texas.

Ron was born in Rantoul, Wisconsin, on February 23, 1929, to William and Wilhelmina (Ohm) Bessert. Raised on the family farm, he carried fond memories of farm life, hard work, and youthful adventures with his siblings. A proud Wisconsinite, Ron was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan and shareholder.

He married Arlene Riemer on August 16, 1952. Together, they shared 51 years of marriage and raised four children.

After beginning life as a farmer, Ron pursued higher education, after graduating from Chilton High School.  In 1958 He graduated from Concordia University-Chicago. He became a lifelong art educator, teaching for 23 years (1968–1991) in the Reedsburg School District, where he inspired generations of students to appreciate art, culture, and close observation of the world around them. Following retirement, he moved to Mauston to live on his son's farm.

Ron had a deep love for museums, national parks, and lifelong learning. Family vacations often became educational adventures, and his curiosity endured throughout his life. He was also well known for his skill at Euchre and enjoyed making homemade wine.

Beginning in 1994, Ron and Arlene spent winters in Edinburg, Texas, where they enjoyed time visiting his brother-Harvey and wife Lorraine and developed many lasting friendships within the community. After Arlene's passing, Ron continued wintering there with his beloved cat, Diva. He enjoyed weekly music jams and the strong sense of community he found there. Ron also cherished travel experiences with his children, including trips to Hawaii, Alaska, Aruba, the Bahamas, and Key West.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Arlene; his son, Alan Bessert; and his siblings: Olivia Carey, Loretta Schroeder, Dorothy Biedenbender, Harvey Bessert, Donald Bessert (his twin brother), and William Bessert.

He is survived by three children: Loree Bessert (Tom Barton) of Lewisville, Texas; Dr. Bob Bessert, DVM, of Grand Junction, Colorado; and Mari Robertson RN (Wes Burkhart) of Lewisville, Texas. He is also survived by four grandchildren—Samantha Erie, PA C (Jason Erie); Dr. Lauren Bessert, DVM (James Gillispie); Kade Bessert; and Keane Bessert—and four great grandchildren: Cooper, Avery, June, and Gannon.

Funeral services for Ronald Bessert will be conducted at 11:30 A.M. on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at St. Peter Ev. Lutheran Church in Reedsburg with Pastor Paul Crolius officiating. Burial will follow in St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery, Reedsburg. Visitation will be on Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service at the church.

The Farber Funeral Home, Reedsburg, is assisting the family.