Remembering John Buhler: Founder, Philanthropist, and Family Man

John Buhler, a visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, passed away on December 21, 2024, at the age of 91. His legacy as a hardworking businessman, visionary, and philanthropist who transformed both industry and community will be cherished for generations to come. Born in Haskett, Manitoba, on July 1, 1933, to Frank and Mary Buhler, John was predeceased by his parents, brothers Benny and Frank, sister Lena Brown, and his first wife Ruth Buhler. He is survived by his wife Bonnie, his children, Patti Schroeder, Doug Buhler, Sharon Bergen, Kathy Buhler, and Barbara Haché; his grandchildren, Ashley, Ainsley, Brittany, Evan, Caleb, Kai, John, Michelle, Lorna Jane, and Elizabeth; and his brother Jake Buhler (Marg).

John's remarkable journey began in 1969 when he purchased Standard Engine Gas Works in Morden, Manitoba, and renamed it Farm King Ltd. This marked the beginning of his process of building what would become a significant force in the agricultural machinery industry. His vision and dream of building farm machinery, particularly tractors, came to fruition as he slowly but steadily expanded the company.

A pivotal moment in John's career came in 2000 when he purchased Canada's last remaining tractor-manufacturing plant, renaming it Buhler Versatile. This strategic move allowed him to expand his business and establish Buhler Industries, a name that became synonymous with innovation in the agricultural sector. In 2007, after nearly four decades of growth, John made the decision to sell a majority stake in his company to Russia's Rostselmash Ltd. for $195 million, marking the end of one chapter in his business journey.

Throughout his career, John became known as much for his community spirit as for his business acumen. Together with his wife, Bonnie, he dedicated himself to philanthropy, supporting numerous institutions and causes across Winnipeg. Their charitable donations to hospitals, post-secondary institutions, and human rights organizations have shaped Winnipeg, inspiring countless others to contribute to their communities.

John's achievements did not go unnoticed. He was inducted into the Manitoba Business Hall of Fame in 2014, appointed a Member of the Order of Canada in 2012, and received a degree for distinguished achievement from the University of Manitoba in 2011. His honors were a testament to the profound impact he made on both the business world and the community he loved.

John's final year would not have been as good as it was without the special care he received from his primary care workers, Angela, Nataliya, and Bella. He loved all the staff at Bergen Gardens and would light up when he saw them. John was known as many things to many people, but what cannot be denied is that in every room, from the board room to the family room, Johnny knew who he was and stubbornly refused to let anything dim his light. It was in this light that we held a private family Memorial to celebrate a man who showed us what it means to live a full life.

Special thanks to Gil and Edna for always being there for us, The Church of the Rock for helping us with Johnny's Memorial, and to Thompson in the Park, Johnny's final resting place.

In lieu of flowers, and in honour of John's charitable heart, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.

John Buhler's legacy will live on in the institutions he helped build, the lives he touched, and the dreams he inspired. His entrepreneurial journey transformed the agricultural machinery industry in Manitoba and Canada, while his philanthropic efforts shaped Winnipeg and inspired others to contribute to their communities. John's impact on the industry and community will be felt for generations to come.