RICE LAKE, Wis. (WEAU) – Supper clubs are as Wisconsin as a Brandy Old Fashioned.

Lehman’s Supper Club in Rice Lake celebrated its 90th anniversary on Sunday and many people came to the Barron County pub to show their love for the pub and the family that runs it.

“We are doing just wonderfully. We are overwhelmed by the support we get from the people here,” said Harold “Butch” Lehman.

“And it brings tears to my eyes. The people who are here and the people who are not here. That’s what helped us get to where we are,” Trudy Lehman said.

The couple co-owned the supper club for decades; the previous owners were Butch’s late parents.

So many guests came to the celebration on Main Street that ATVs were needed to transport guests from the parking lot across the street.

“They are so committed to the community. And they work so hard. They need a big celebration like the one they are having now,” said Marlene Gargulak.

“It’s nice to see them celebrating and not working,” said Peg Thome.

“The size of this crowd just says everything about what they think of Butch and Trudy,” Jim Gargulak.

Those present included friends and family members of the married co-owners, as well as former and current work colleagues.

“And we enjoy what we do. It’s hard work, but we enjoy what we do. The people are what make it special,” Trudy said.

“Butch’s mother and father were still alive when I started,” said Francine “Fran” Miller.

She had worked as a waitress at the supper club for forty years.

“I’m kind of a fixture. I’m always part of the group because I’ve been here so long,” Miller said.

Others have followed this path over the decades, just like her.

“We are also part of the community and offer them the opportunity to celebrate their special occasions here,” Trudy said.

“These are memories. Wonderful memories. Many New Year’s Eves, right here in this cabin,” said Kathy Knutson.

“They really care about the community. They are wonderful people and we just love them,” said Ed Knutson.

“We celebrated our 65th wedding anniversary here,” said Duke Thurs.

“I just love this place. I love Butch and Trudy and the whole family,” said Marlene Thurs.

“And it’s just a great place. The Lehmans are a welcoming family,” Duke said.

A community forever connected by an old-fashioned Wisconsin staple.

A longevity that one could say is rare in a small town.

“You never know tomorrow. We live day by day. It’s been an amazing journey and we are so grateful and so happy,” said Butch.

Butch and Trudy as well as the Lehman family thank you for the decades of cooperation and hope

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