Bennie Harder delivered milk, served South Beloit

Benjamin “Bennie” Harder, 97, of South Beloit, passed away on July 16, 2025 at Beloit Senior Living surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 28, 1928 in Reinach, Switzerland to the late Henry and Elsie (Heidger) Harder. Bennie was a proud Army veteran stationed in Germany during the Korean conflict. He married Elizabeth “Betty” Erickson on April 27, 1951 in Neillsville, WI. Together they shared 74 years of marriage. Bennie was a home delivery milkman for over 50 years for Dougan Dairy, and then Wright & Wagner, winning their salesman of the year 7 straight years in a row. He purchased his route in 1972 and was self employed until his retirement.

Bennie enjoyed woodworking, gardening, golfing, fishing, traveling with Hanna and Bernie Opelt, and playing family card and dice games. He was a member, deacon, and head usher until 2021 at the United Church of Beloit (formerly Second Congregational). He was a member of the South Beloit Businessman's Association, South Beloit American Legion, and past president of the South Beloit Lions Club. He was active in the Boy Scouts as a committee leader and Scoutmaster. Bennie and Betty enjoyed attending Friday night fish-fries at the original Pearl Lake Supper Club, South Beloit American Legion, and most recently, the Mouse. Bennie’s over and above volunteer efforts and dedication will be missed by many. Above all, he loved traveling and spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. 

Survivors include his wife of 74 years; Betty Harder,  three children; David (Debbie) Harder, Barb Reynolds, Gary (Roxanne) Harder; nine grandchildren; Chris (Val) Harder, Amanda Acklam, Katie (Marcus) Moore, Joe (Jenny) Harder, JJ (Gina) Lipor, Chad (Michelle) Reynolds, Chris (Nicole) Reynolds, Craig Reynolds, Kayla (Devin) Simpson; twelve great-grandchildren;Gracie, Lily, Luke, Micah, Kaiden, Noah, Ezra, Leo, Landon, Owen, Logan, Cooper; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws Gus and Virginia Erickson; son-in-law Kurt Reynolds; brothers Henry (Peg), Rene (Joan), Hans (Donna), Alan (Karen); sisters-in-laws Lois (Chuck) Prowse, Audrey (Richard) Lyford; and brother-in-law Gus (Dorothy) Erickson Jr.  

A memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Brian Mark Funeral Home, 1000 E Inman Pkwy, Beloit, WI. with Chaplain Mark Maxted officiating. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Military honors will take place following the service. The family is being assisted by Rosman & Brian Mark Funeral Home.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Beloit Senior Living, and Heartland Hospice for the special care given to Bennie. 

Memorials can be made in Bennie’s name to Vets Roll or South Beloit American Legion.