Ronald Edward Ronke

Ron cherished his role as a father, and nothing brought him more joy than cheering on his sons, Travis and Todd. His presence at every sporting event was unwavering; he was not just a spectator but an active participant in their lives. Whenever possible, Ron took on the role of coach, guiding them through the ups and downs of youth sports. Ron helped coach his sons' teams to lead them to winning multiple championships. The moments spent together on the field not only became cherished memories to Ron and his sons but also to the many young men he coached.

Carolyn was the love of Ron's life, but there was another love that held a special place in his heart—his beloved dog, Razz. Ron and Razz formed an inseparable bond. Razz was more than just a pet; he was a loyal companion who brought joy to Ron.

Ron was most proud of his service as a Firefighter/EMT with the Watertown Fire Department, retiring on 9-11-2001, after 25 years of service. From his first day on the job, he embraced the challenges and responsibilities that came with being a firefighter. His devotion to helping others were hallmarks of his career and a testament to Ron's personality.

Being a firefighter was only one side of Ron's dedication to his community. Ron was actively involved in his community, as a member of the Elks Lodge #838, serving as a past Exalted Ruler, and contributing to the Make-A-Wish Foundation as a wish granter. His dedication to helping others brought smiles to countless faces and left a lasting impact on those around him. His joy to helping young children was seen often as was his soft spot for children.

An avid sports enthusiast, Ron found joy on the golf course, watching his granddaughters and great-grandchildren at their events, and being at the racetrack as a pitman, driver, and flagman at Casino Speedway, where his enthusiasm for the sport was infectious. Ron also enjoyed his fantasy football leagues and survivor boards at Dempsey’s. Dempsey’s was his favorite spot to spend his free time. Ron was never a stranger to the staff and patrons there.

Ronald is survived by his sons Travis (Tracy) Ronke, of Watertown, and Todd (Mary) Ronke, of Watertown; grandchildren, Cori, Taylor, Tatum, Taryn, Caitlin, and Tegan; great-grandchildren, Lucy, Colt, Camryn, Breckan, Hank, Easton, Maverick, Winnie, Clara, Lincoln, Rayleigh, and baby Walton; ten siblings, Fran Hanggi, of Minnesota; Russ (LeAnnette) Ronke, of South Dakota; Marilyn (Gary) Flesland, of Minnesota; Richard (Kina) Ronke, of South Dakota; Tom (Joanne) Ronke, of South Dakota; Larry (Laura) Ronke, of North Carolina; James (Marcia) Ronke, of South Dakota; Jerry (Maureen) Ronke, of Minnesota; Mary Jane (Jeff) Kolodjski, of Minnesota; and Brenda (Terry) Reeves, of South Carolina; and many nieces and nephews.

Ronald was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn; parents, Norbert Ronke and Mary Ronke; father-in-law and mother-in-law, George “Frank” and Sharon Croninger; four siblings, Bernard "Skip" Ronke, Carolyn Bolton, Linda Taylor, and Greg Ronke; and one great-grandchild.