Doug Rivard, 86, was born on April 20, 1936, to Felix and Clara (Arndt) Rivard. He passed away on April 19, 2023. Doug grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, attending Harding High School for three years before moving and transferring to Osceola, Wisconsin, where he met his future bride, Kathy (Slocum). After graduating from Osceola High School, they married in 1956 and went on to have five children.
Doug lived an active life; his working career included 13 years at Burlington Northern Railroad, he dabbled in racing cars, owned a racehorse, and then settled into owning a small dairy farm, before he and Kathy established “The Farm” in 1970. Doug spent most of his days on a tractor in the field, running the Gator to and from the horse barn, milking cows, maintaining and fixing farm equipment and working chores at the farm. Doug was passionate in his farming, he had a love for agriculture that was passed onto his kids and grandkids, as he taught them a strong work ethic and good morals.
Most have described him as stubborn and set in his ways, one that said it how it was and wasn’t afraid to show you the “right” way to do it. He was known as a man of integrity and an exemplary role model for those who were blessed to get to know him.
Doug was a leader and mentor in his community, serving as town chairman and holding seats on the AgStar and Farm Credit Boards. He was an active participant in the Polk County Fair, assisting with the kids enrolled in 4-H.
He was a loving husband to his wife, Kathy; a devoted father to his children, Rod (Corina), Rick, Becky (Dave), Tracie (Perry), and Shelly (Clyde); and “Grandpa Toepick” to his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Phil and Wally.
He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends that found joy in Doug’s presence.
A memorial service will be held at noon, Friday, April 28, 2023, at Zion Lutheran Church, East Farmington, Wisconsin. A visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m., Thursday, April 27, at the Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, and will continue two hours prior to the service at the church on Friday. Interment will be held in the Oak Grove Cemetery, East Farmington. Arrangements are with the Grandstrand Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at grandstrandfh.com.
