Richard Ronk

Richard L. Ronk, age 86, of Townsend, WI passed Monday morning, July 20, 2015 at Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice after a two year bout with cancer. He was born February 6, 1929 in Sheboygan to Lester and Eleanor (Kloph) Ronk. He attended local schools and was a graduate of Sheboygan Central High School, Class of 1947. Richard then served his country by enlisting in the US Air Force for four years. Following his honorable discharge he worked at Montgomery Ward's until joining the Sheboygan Fire Department. On February 7, 1955 Richard and Rogene Radloff were united in marriage in Sheboygan. While with the fire department Richard served as a union representative and was on the Executive Board of Wisconsin Fire Fighters. After twenty-nine years he retired as Captain. Richard was a member of the Sheboygan Yacht Club where he served as treasurer and a member of the Sheboygan Outboard Club. He enjoyed cruising /fishing on Lake Michigan with his variety of boats. He loved putzing in his woodworking shop. He and his son, Ramsey, built both his dream retirement home in Townsend, WI as well as Ramsey and Debbie's "Lake House". He enjoyed musky fishing. Richard had a passion for cutting grass on his riding lawn mower and cutting down trees, even though he lived in the woods. A special joy of Richard's was visiting with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren even up to the day he died. In addition to his wife, Rogene, he is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Ramsey and Debbie Ronk of Sheboygan; two grandchildren, Rebecca (Jeffrey) Bruntjens of Sheboygan and Ryan Ronk of Milwaukee; two great-grandchildren, Kaden and Ellianna Bruntjens; his brother, Jim Ronk of Naperville, IL; nieces, nephews, and many friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Marilyn Ronk. Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, July 24, 2015 at the Chapel of Eternal Light at Greenlawn Memorial Park. Deacon Michael Burch will officiate. A time of visitation and support will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Entombment will follow. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his name for Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice.