Death: John Buhler Of Winnipeg, MB, Retired Chairman and CEO of Buhler Industries Died at 84

Death John Buhler Of Winnipeg, MB, Retired Chairman and CEO of Buhler Industries Died at 84

John Buhler Obituary, c — The community of Winnipeg and beyond is mourning the loss of John Buhler, a celebrated businessman and philanthropist, who passed away this weekend at the age of 84.

Buhler, whose name has become synonymous with innovation, generosity, and community development, leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.

Born in rural Manitoba, John Buhler’s story is one of hard work, determination, and visionary leadership. He began his career in the agricultural machinery industry, rising to prominence as the driving force behind Buhler Industries, a company that grew into a global powerhouse under his stewardship.

Buhler’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to quality helped establish the company as a leader in the manufacturing of tractors and farm equipment, contributing significantly to Canada’s agricultural sector.

Beyond his business acumen, Buhler was deeply committed to giving back to his community. His philanthropic efforts spanned decades, with transformative contributions to health care, education, and the arts.

The Buhler name is proudly displayed in several institutions, including the Buhler Cancer Centre at Victoria Hospital and the Buhler Gallery at St. Boniface Hospital. His donations to universities and colleges across Manitoba have supported countless students in achieving their academic dreams.

“John was a true pillar of our community,” said Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham. “His contributions to our city and province have left an indelible mark. He was not only a brilliant businessman but also a kind-hearted individual who cared deeply about the well-being of others.”

Buhler’s generosity extended far beyond financial contributions. He was known for his hands-on approach to community involvement, often attending events and engaging directly with the organizations he supported. His passion for fostering opportunities for others was evident in every aspect of his life.

John Buhler is survived by his wife, Bonnie, their children, and grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply. In a statement, his family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received, stating, “John’s legacy is one of compassion, determination, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others. He will be profoundly missed but forever remembered.”

As Winnipeg and the wider community reflect on Buhler’s life, plans are underway for a public celebration of his contributions and achievements. Details will be announced in the coming days.

John Buhler’s passing marks the end of an era, but his enduring legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations. He will be remembered not only as a titan of industry but as a man whose heart was as expansive as his vision for a better world.

John and his wife Bonita (Bonnie) Buhler were well-known for contributing to the betterment of their town. The altruistic couple from humble beginnings is deeply committed to their family. They have five children, 10 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. In 1969, John Buhler bought Morden’s Standard Gas Engine Works and renamed it Farm King Limited.

It was the first step toward constructing a farm equipment empire that was merged with Buhler Industries in 1994 and later expanded to encompass the Versatile tractor manufacturing plant, allowing Buhler to realize his lifelong dream of building tractors.

Bonnie Buhler was born in British Columbia and relocated to Winnipeg at the age of twelve. She attended Kelvin High School before beginning her career at Manitoba Telephone Systems as a legal secretary. She also took on the role of special events coordinator at Buhler Industries.

In 2007, John retired as Chairman and CEO of Buhler Industries, having earned a fortune that he and Bonnie have decided to share with others. Bonnie was inspired to help enhance healthcare facilities after her daughter was diagnosed with a challenging medical condition; their generosity ultimately grew to include education programs as well. In total, the Buhlers have given more than $60 million in charitable gifts, selecting charities that deserve their time and enthusiasm in addition to financial support.

Throughout his career, John has received numerous awards, including “Manitoba Entrepreneur of the Year” in 1998, the Queen’s Jubilee Medal for community service in 2002, an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Manitoba in 2011, and the Order of Canada in 2012 Bonnie Buhler received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and the couple shared the Variety Gold Heart Humanitarian of the Year Award in 2007.

The Buhlers’ generous legacy now includes The Buhler Gallery at St. Boniface Hospital, The Buhler Cancer Centre at Victoria Hospital, the Buhler Reflective Gardens at St. Amant Centre, the Buhler Welcome Centre at the Manitoba Children’s Museum, the Buhler Commons and John and Bonnie Buhler Library at Red River College.

A large donation in 2010 resulted in the opening of the Buhler Centre on the corner of Portage Avenue and Colony Street, which now houses UWinnipeg’s Faculty of Business and Economics, as well as Professional, Applied Continuing Education. Part of the donation was utilized to establish the John and Bonnie Buhler Knowledge Fund, which awards large scholarships and bursaries to a select group of deserving students each year.

The University of Winnipeg conferred an Honorary Doctor of Laws upon John and Bonnie Buhler in recognition of their dedication and commitment to care.

Founder of Buhler Industries, a farm equipment company.
Johnny Buhler never claimed to be the world’s smartest entrepreneur, but you wouldn’t dare challenge his business acumen. The 84-year-old entrepreneur-turned-philanthropist built a manufacturing empire after purchasing Standard Engine Gas Works in Morden, Manitoba, in 1969.

He promptly renamed it Farm King Ltd., and a quarter-century later, he founded Buhler Industries. He then acquired Canada’s sole surviving part of the donation was utilized to establish the John and Bonnie Buhler Knowledge Fund, which awards large scholarships and bursaries to a select group of deserving students each year. The University of Winnipeg is pleased to confer an Honorary Doctor of Laws upon John and Bonnie Buhler in recognition of their dedication and commitment to care.

Johnny Buhler never claimed to be the world’s smartest entrepreneur, but you wouldn’t dare challenge his business acumen. The 81-year-old entrepreneur-turned-philanthropist built a manufacturing empire after purchasing Standard Engine Gas Works in Morden, Manitoba, in 1969.

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