Bernard "Ben" Clements

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Ben was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and a familiar and caring presence in the Exeland community.

Bernard “Ben” Clements, age 91, of Exeland, Wisconsin, passed away on August 23, 2026. Ben was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and a familiar and caring presence in the Exeland community for most of his life.

Ben graduated from Winter High School in 1954. In April of 1958, he was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served for 18 months in Germany. While home on leave, he married Jocyne Block in June of 1958. Together, they built a life filled with family, hard work, laughter, and many wonderful memories.

A hardworking man with a natural ability to fix just about anything, Ben spent many years working at Gerber Brothers Ford Garage in Exeland while also owning the Buckhorn Bar. After selling the bar, Ben and Jocyne opened Clements Hardware Store and Gas Station. Ben especially enjoyed his work as a small engine mechanic, where his knack for figuring things out and helping people served him well. He later worked as a custodian at the Exeland School, where he became a special part of the school community and made a lasting impression on both students and staff.

Ben’s love for his community was evident in the many ways he gave his time and talents. He served as Village President of Exeland and played an important role in developing the village sewer and water systems. He also served as Chief of the Exeland Fire Department and was a founding member of the Exeland Rod and Gun Club.

Outside of work and community service, Ben knew how to enjoy life. He loved hunting and fishing, especially fishing trips to Canada and hunting trips out west. He enjoyed golfing, playing cribbage and poker, and making a trip to the casino. But perhaps the things that mattered most were the people he shared those moments with. Ben treasured his family and the time spent together, and his stories, humor, and steady presence will be missed by all who knew him.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Dollie Clements; his beloved wife, Jocyne Clements; his brothers, Sam and Willie Clements; and his sister, Carol Buck.

He is survived by his daughters, Susan (Denny) Kopras and Sherry (Dave) Samardzich; grandchildren, Kelsie Kopras and Conner (Karlie) Kopras; great-granddaughter, Murphie Kopras; sisters, Delores Olsen and Gloria Chase; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind the family dog, Reggie.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt and special thank you to the staff at Ladysmith Care and Rehab for the wonderful care, kindness, and compassion they provided to Ben. Their support and dedication meant so much to Ben and his family.

Funeral services will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Exeland, Wisconsin, on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with the service beginning at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Mark A. Bartlett officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Couderay, Wisconsin. Military honors will be provided by the Exeland and Bruce American Legions.

Complete obituaries will also be published in the Ladysmith news and Sawyer County Gazette.