Richard R. “Rebel” Breyman
Richard R. “Rebel” Breyman, son of Richard D. Breyman, passed away on February 11, 2024 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
After graduating from High School in 1974 Richard enlisted in the Wisconsin National Guard 43rd Aviation Co. completing basic training at Ft. Dix, New Jersey then going to Ft. Rucker, AL for UH-1 helicopter repairman training. He then returned to the Nation Guard 43rd Aviation Co. in Madison, WI.
After 2 months, Richard enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Ft. Knox for Armor Crewman training. From there he was assigned to the 2nd Armored Calvary Regiment in Germany for 3 years, returning to state side to the 1st Calvary Division, Ft. Hood, TX in January 1979. He returned home with an honorable discharge.
Richard retired as an Iron worker for the Iron Workers, Local 383 out of Madison, WI. He was an active member of the American Legion Hall – Post 153 in Pittsville, WI and the American Legion Riders District 8 of Wisconsin Rapids. Richard was an avid scuba diver, enjoyed collecting guns, and riding his Harley.
He is survived by his sons: Richard E. and William (Cassie); brother, Steven (Rita); cousins, Cindy and Nancy, grandchildren: Alexandria, Annastasia, Tatina, Katerina, and Eric; and great-grandchild, Sera; as well as his beloved canine companions, Queenie and Momo (Morgana).
His spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Richard will be laid to rest at Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery at a later date.
I met Rebel 27 years ago through my job. With his gruff exterior and no nonsense attitude some of my co-workers were a little afraid of him but for me he instantly reminded me of my dad and I was always glad to talk with him. Rebel and I were about as different as two people can be in just about every way but for some reason that never mattered. My parents instilled in me great respect for our countries Veterans and his never wavering commitment to those that served was something to be respected and revered. I always loved hearing him tell stories in his unique way. Two years ago he sent me a small Christmas gift and even though it was a very small token it touched my heart that he thought of me when he saw it. I ran into him late last fall and I am so grateful that I was able to see him and have a nice conversation with him. I told him I would keep him in my prayers. He will be missed.