Brad was born in Wisconsin Rapids and lived in Stevens Point until he was about 8 years old. Then he and his family moved to Plainfield, where he graduated from Tri-County High School. After graduation, Brad joined the military for an impressive 15 years as part of the Army!  

He was deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq- twice (once during the original invasion) and Djibuti, Africa- with four tours altogether under his belt. After serving overseas, Brad endured four strokes and brain surgery from exposure related complications. He was medically retired and considers himself fortunate to be alive today.   

After retiring, Brad decided to join Sandy Bula, owner of Ponderosa Pines Pub in Bancroft, on a mission to support the Veterans Benefit Ride. After a decade of helping, he has stepped up his game and made an immense contribution in the last three years. What was once just 50-50 raffles, and a few door prizes, is now over 200 riders, and 70-100 machine giveaways! Each year he sets out to achieve greater heights by rallying sponsors, participants and increasing giveaways. With everyone’s commitment, this cause is getting bigger and better every year!    
 
 

Brad’s mission to give back started when he met Keith Steele, who runs Hunting for the Cure in Georgia. Taking kids with cancer hunting and filming them was an unforgettable experience for Brad. "Seeing these kids that are sick, not even acting like they’re sick; just having a great time and trying to be a kid for the weekend” really resonated with Brad. After this inspiring encounter he knew without question what his calling in life had become. “I told myself this is obviously what I’m supposed to do.”   

Every year, he takes kids with disabilities and Veterans on hunting trips with Eric Beggs, a friend who shares Brad’s vision with the United Special Sportsman Alliance. His ultimate goal is to open his own non-profit and introduce kids with disabilities and Veterans to the great outdoors where they can fish and hunt.  What an honor it must be for these special guests!   

Brad’s favorite song “In Color” by Jamey Johnson is a powerful reminder that only other Veterans truly understand each other’s experiences. His best friend and fellow soldier, Corporal Anthony Cardinal was part of the 3-7 Cav 3rd Infantry Division and gave the ultimate sacrifice fighting for our country. Corporal Cardinal is Brad's hero and inspires him to put service and giving back at the heart of everything he does. Now he focuses intently on giving back any way he can- from helping those around him in need to encouraging others to do the same.   

Brad believes Stevens Point and the surrounding area is “small town, but with big hearts” and “everybody’s willing to help if need be.” He hopes that the community will “open their eyes to different organizations and realize, it is okay to give back or maybe just take five minutes to help someone else.”  

Brad’s most deeply held belief is that if he calls you a friend or family, he “will always have your back.” So, if you’re friends with Brad Rothermel, consider yourself lucky, because that’s a bond that can never be broken.   

Go check out the Ponderosa Pines Facebook Page here and follow the Veterans Benefit Ride Event, on May 20th, 2023, and consider participating!