Barry Breault, 58

Barry Thomas Breault, age 58, of Somerset, former owner of Ben’s Bar, died peacefully Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Barry was born on May 22, 1951, in St. Paul, Minn., the son of Vern and Shirley (Akey) Breault. Barry was proud to call Somerset his home for his entire life. Generations back, his grandfather founded Ben’s Bar in Somerset. For generations, the bar was owned and operated by the Breault family. Along with his dad and brothers Rick and Vern, Ben’s became a landmark in Somerset. Many friendships were cultivated over the years whether vendors, patrons, or anyone just stopping in for a quick bump. Many world problems could have been easily solved with their “smart talk” discussions. Barry loved to be surrounded by friends and family. He had a heart of gold, which was probably his downfall as he gave until he couldn’t give anymore.

On April 15, 1985, he was united in marriage to Jeanine Mary Norlander in Maui, Hawaii.

Barry thoroughly enjoyed his frequent trips for the elusive Walleye in the waters of Canada. Over the years, he always looked forward to seeing the guys in his bowling league or rounds at the New Richmond Golf Course and Bristol Ridge. He was a sure hand at pool and a steady eye at darts. One of his greatest pleasures was their frequent trips to Lambeau Field. Everyone was treated like king and queens when the bus left Ben’s and rocked all the way to Green Bay.

Although his health declined over the past years, he never let that take the wind out of his sails. After they sold the bar, he always looked forward to the regulars coming over for breakfast, lunch, or bonfires, especially on Wednesdays. A part of Somerset’s heart was lost when Barry died. He will be missed but not forgotten.

Barry will remain in the hearts of his wife, Jeanine; four children, Brian and wife Kelly and their kids Brianna and Nickolas, Brandon and partner Matt, Elizabeth Barry-Jensen and husband Erick and their kids Preston and Payton, Serena Barry and her daughter Giselle; two brothers, Rick and wife Cindy Breault, Vern Breault; two sisters, Darcy and husband Mick Moe, Kim and husband Jay Miller; special friends, Jim Moe and Terry Steinlicht; mother-in-law, Joyce Norlander and family; as well as numerous relatives and friends - too many to mention.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Shirley (Akey) Breault; infant brother, Benny; father-in-law, George Norlander; and niece, Tammy Buchholz.

A Celebration of Life for Barry Breault will be from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 10 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson. Memorials are preferred.

Cremation services coordinated by Countryside Crematory of Baldwin with funeral services entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson. www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com.