Obituary
John R. Bissen
John R. Bissen, 66, of Barre Mills, lost his battle with cancer on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at his home with loved ones by his side. Born on August 24, 1959, to William and Rita (Horihan) Bissen, John grew up grounded in strong family values and a deep sense of loyalty that remained with him throughout his life.
He attended Cathedral Grade School and graduated from Aquinas High School in 1977. In October of that same year, he enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving in the 25th Infantry Division. John spent three years stationed at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii-an experience that shaped him and that he remembered with honor and pride.
After completing his military service, John earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He later moved to Minneapolis, working various jobs before beginning a long and meaningful career in environmental work and consulting. John worked for Atlas Technical Consultants, retiring in 2025 after 38 years of dedicated service in the field.
John was known for his quick wit and his warm heart. He had a knack for grumbling just enough to make people laugh, usually followed by an eyebrow raise that said everything he needed to. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and treasured the time he spent with his family. John also had a love for his dogs, who were faithful companions and an important part of his life.
Left to honor and cherish his memory are his five siblings: four sisters-Joan (Gerry) Pechmann of Cottage Grove, WI; Agnes (Tom) Neumeister of La Crosse, WI; Ann Bissen Dutton of Apple Valley, MN; and Rose (Jeff) Payne of St. Paul, MN-and one brother, Steve Bissen of Tomah, WI. He is lovingly remembered by his four nieces, six nephews and their spouses, as well as eleven great-nieces and five great-nephews. He also leaves behind many cousins and countless friends across the country.
He was preceded in death by his parents; several aunts and uncles; and his beloved four-legged companions, who brought him years of comfort and unconditional love.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Paul Molling, John’s primary physician. Liz and Lindsey, along with the team at Agrace Hospice. They also want to share their deepest appreciation for Marsha and Ashley, together with the rest of their team at Quality Comfort Care. Whose compassion, care and steady presence meant so much to John and his family in his final weeks.
A celebration of life will be held at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason Street, Onalaska, WI on Saturday, March 21, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Prayer service at 11:30 with lunch to follow.
As a final expression of humility and peace, John wished to share these words: “Please forgive me my trespasses”.
John had a fun sense of humor and always had a joke or two to tell. I admired how he attended many family gatherings- graduations, birthday parties, summer outings, weddings and holiday events. He was also there when serious events occurred. You could count on him. With a family as large as it was, there were many events to attend. You could tell family was important to him.
Holding John’s family close in my thoughts and prayers. I was honored to take over care for John’s dog, Percy. RIP John, I will give Percy extra hugs and treats for you.
RIP John. Such a kind man. His friendship will be missed by our family. And his sense of humor too❤️
Sincere condolences to all of his family.
John was a gem of a man…a colleague and a friend. A straight shooter who spoke his mind. Loved his candor. I am bummed that he is gone but happy that his pain/suffering is over. May he rest in peace.
A great cousin. So funny and thoughtful. He was named after my Dad and always visited him and kept the stories coming. We loved him even from a distance. May he rest in peace
John and I met and worked together at 3M over 30 years ago. We both moved on but remained in the same industry and occasionally worked together on a project. Though we would not see each other for years at a time, whenever we reconnected we picked up where we left off, sharing stories, giving each other a hard time and sharing some laughs. I’m sorry he’s gone but he left me smiling with his final expression “Please forgive me my trespasses”…..as only John could deliver. Rest in peace buddy and see you long time soon.
Hadn’t seen John in a long time, but memories of Him with Bill and Rita and their family gave me strength and purpose. Much love and prayers for John and family.
John, your devilish smile and raised eyebrow expression will be missed. We loved your playful sense of humor. We’re so glad to have known you.
John was perhaps my closest friend as a child. His mother Rita was almost a mother to me. Rita introduced my father to my mother. As both the Bisson and Leach families were somewhat large 7 in ours, and our mothers had to be a little thrifty we even shared clothes. Rita was our Cub Scout Master. I remember John as being well versed in many subjects as his Dad. John got to stay up and watch Jonny Carson, which I didn’t. I was envious of John, to stay up late with your dad watching humor. I wish I could have got to spend more time with him, I will miss John.