Kenneth J. Bier Sr., age 86, a resident of Manitowoc, and formerly of California, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at Dimensions Living in Manitowoc.

Ken was born on August 11, 1940 in Madera, CA to the late Earl and Martha (Metzler) Bier. After graduating from high school, Ken worked for his father by operating heavy equipment on the family farm where they grew grapes, peaches and almonds. He primarily worked as a truck driver, but had also worked at Fisher Hamilton, Lakeside Foods, and Burger Boat. On September 28, 1985, Ken married Dolores Phillips in Las Vegas at Chapel of the Bells. He loved ranching, watching old cowboy movies and westerns, riding his motorcycle, and especially his Blue Heeler dogs – Bandit and Gypsy.

Survivors include Ken’s wife of 41 years, Dolores; two sons, Kenneth (Janet) Bier Jr., Southern Pines, NC; and Richard Bier, California; three stepchildren, Debbie (Jim) Dickinson, Two Rivers; Cheryl (Larry) Bivens, Buena Park, CA; and Bill Phillips, Manitowoc; four grandchildren, Melissa Mchenry, Brandon Bier, Christopher Bier, and Nicholas Bier; three step grandchildren, Jaime Mudgett, Jacob Bivens, and Amber Bivens; three great grandchildren, Brycen Mchenry, McKinsey Bier, and Dakota Bier; six step great grandchildren, Cody Mudgett, Dylan Bivens, Brandon Bivens, Mia Bivens, Jayson Janda and Samantha Janda; nephew, Kevin Bier; also other relatives and friends. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Martha Bier; and brother and sister-in-law, Earl Jr. and Andrea Bier.

In respect with Ken’s wishes, there will be no public visitation or funeral service. Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel with burial of his cremated remains to be held at Evergreen Cemetery in Manitowoc. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

Ken’s family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to Jessica of Caring Hearts Guardianship, along with the staffs of Fieldcrest Manor, Dimensions Living, and Heartland Hospice for all the care and compassion they provided. Also, special thanks to his stepson, Bill Phillips … he stepped up these past few years and went above and beyond for Ken.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with arrangements.