John Hafner

John A. Hafner, age 85, of Bryant, WI passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 at his daughter’s residence, while surrounded by his family and under the care of Interim Hospice & Pallative Care.  He was born on September 2, 1934 to the late Albert & Anna (Mucha) Hafner in Bryant, WI.  John met and fell in love with Leilani Taglienti and they married on June 1, 1957.  She survives.

John was a farmer and worked his entire life on the family farm that marked its 100th year in 2019.  He proudly served in the United States Army as a young man.

John is survived by his wife: Leilani “Lee”, children; Richard (Janene), Sandra (Steve), David (Patty), Daniel (Michelle), Dianna (Dan), Debra (Tim), Gregory (Liesl), 12 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, sister: Margaret Knapkavage, nieces, nephews and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Betty Stegelski.

Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, family requests that donations in John’s name be directed to a charity of your choice. If you don't have a preference, hospice was a great help to the family.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Close the Gate (For Dad)
By Nancy Kraayenhof

For this one farmer the worries are over, lie down and rest your head,
Your time has been and struggles enough, put the tractor in the shed.

Years were not easy, many downright hard, but your faith in God transcended,
Put away your tools and sleep in peace. The fences have all been mended.

You raised a fine family, worked the land well and always followed the Son,
Hang up your shovel inside of the barn; your work here on earth is done.

A faith few possess led your journey through life, often a jagged and stony way,
The sun is setting, the cattle are all bedded, and here now is the end of your day.

Your love of God’s soil has passed on to your kin; the stories flow like fine wine,
Wash off your work boots in the puddle left by blessed rain one final time.

You always believed that the good Lord would provide and He always had somehow,
Take off your gloves and put them down, no more sweat and worry for you now.

Your labor is done, your home now is heaven; no more must you wait,
Your legacy lives on, your love of the land, and we will close the gate.