John Haar, age 82, passed away peacefully at his home on December 20, 2025. He was born on August 30, 1943, in Eitzen, Minnesota, where his life story began. John was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Those who knew John often described him as a perfect gentleman.

John married Judy Haar in 1967, sharing 35 wonderful years of marriage filled with family, love, and adventure, until Judy’s passing in 2002. Together, they raised three children: Mike (Nancy) Haar of Oakland, Florida (Amanda, Tony, and Andrew); David (Audrey) Haar of Onalaska, Wisconsin (Jakob); and Sara Haar (Darin Elliott) of Bangor, Wisconsin (Connor Duncan). He recently welcomed two great-grandsons, Mikey and Xavier.

Many of John and Judy’s memories were made while exploring new places, including trips throughout Europe, Alaska, Deadwood, and many others. They shared a love of dancing, attending country music festivals, and spending time in the kitchen, where they especially enjoyed cooking together. Their lives echoed with laughter, music, and unwavering devotion to one another.

After Judy’s passing, John was blessed to find happiness again with Joan Bladl, whom he married in 2005. Over the next 20 years, they built a life full of joy, adventure, and companionship. John and Joan enjoyed countless getaways – especially to Mexico and throughout the American West, where John’s passion for Western history truly blossomed. Friday nights for John and Joan were reserved for dancing, with John putting on his best dancing duds. He also took great joy in volunteering at the Onalaska American Legion, giving back to his community whenever he could. Through this marriage, John became a stepfather to Ben Bladl of Independence, Wisconsin (Carlee and Ava).

John is also survived by his brother, Burl (Kitty) Haar. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Pauline Haar, and by his first wife, Judy Haar.

John proudly served in the United States Air Force, working in the security division interpreting Morse Code, and was stationed in Germany and Pakistan. Following his honorable discharge, he began a long and dedicated career at the Trane Company, where he worked as a draftsman for more than 30 years, retiring in 2002.

An avid reader, a passion passed down from his mother, John was always eager to learn. He also enjoyed Legos, Jeep rides, and meticulous yard care, taking great pride in a lawn that reflected his exacting standards. A natural collector, John brought pieces of his travels home with him. His collections included western artwork, walking canes, pocketknives, and a hot sauce collection that few could rival. He also loved cars, with some of the most memorable being his Lincoln Town Car and Cadillac, both fitting his classic style. He was incredibly funny, even in his final hours, and was legendary among family and friends for his trivia knowledge.

Above all else, John will be remembered for his kind heart, sharp wit, and unwavering love for his family. He lived a life rich in relationships, curiosity, laughter, and style, leaving behind countless memories and stories that will continue to be shared and treasured by those who loved him.

Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family during this difficult time.