Obituary for Alan J. “Al” Gollnick

He was born August 6, 1958, to Robert and Charlotte (Helvig) Gollnick. For 47 years, Al made his living driving log truck. He started with Webster Lumber and, following its closure, continued hauling logs for various companies. His strong work ethic kept him behind the wheel until the very end of his life.

In 1993, a simple delivery of firewood brought Al and Irene Bernett together. What started with a request for logs to heat her home grew into a loving relationship that lasted 33 years.

Al was a lifelong Harley-Davidson enthusiast. He and Irene enjoyed spending time on the open road, averaging 8,000 to 10,000 miles together each year. He also enjoyed deer hunting, spending time in the woods both working and enjoying the nature.

Survivors include his fiancée, Irene Bernett; children, Michelle Gollnick (Karl Treu), Michael (Jessica) Gollnick, Kyle (Connie) Gollnick, and Christopher (Robyn) Bernett; grandchildren, Dakota Gollnick, Harley Barajas, Bentleyray Tollefson, Jenna Gollnick, Mason Gollnick, Texas Gollnick, Mavryk Gollnick, Charlotte Gollnick, and Isaac Bernett; great-grandchildren, Braxton, Ivan, and Tegan; brother, James (Ruth) Gollnick; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Al was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Thomas Gollnick.

If you wish to honor Al’s memory with a memorial contribution, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be directed to the Bangor Rod and Gun Club High School Trap Team or the Bangor or Ripon FFA.

A Celebration of Al’s Life will begin at 11:00 a.m., on August 8, 2026, at Club 16, 1615 W. Wisconsin St., Sparta. A meal will be served at noon, after which the Celebration of Life will continue. Guests are welcome to arrive at any time and stay as long as they wish.

Online condolences may be offered to Al’s family at this site.