Search by Name

Search by Name

Ron Siepmann Obituary

Siepmann, Ron
This hurts so much for you to be taken from us. For you are our source of unconditional love...laughter...wisdom...fortitude...integrity... generosity and grace. You gave to so many without ever asking anything in return. You have cared for us and have shaped each of us. You forged family and friendships that are now an extension of you when we need you most. A safety net of people and love that is beyond compare. It is now our security blanket and our guide to life. You showed us what a loving husband does. How to support and care for the love of your life, your children and your grandchildren. You showed us what a loving grandpa does. How to spoil your grandchildren and how to support them when they are in need. You showed us how to live life. Full of generosity and caring for those in need. Always there when we needed you. You gave us experiences around the world that made each of our lives one of a kind. You showed us what a solid work ethic looks like and made sure we all understood and lived it. You built businesses in real estate, restaurants and manufacturing that showed us and the world how to take the high road, to do things right. To care for the earth and for the people on it. You took loving, sincere interest in the people who worked to make you successful and made many successful in their own right. We are living surrounded by your work - the gifts you gave this world. You introduced us to laughter - how to make people laugh with limericks and jokes. How to laugh at ourselves. You showed us how to connect and how to care. "Is everyone having fun?" "Is everything perfect?" "Is everybody happy?" You showed us how to enjoy food and drink. Your legendary cooking was on display at every meal. Saturday morning pancakes were a tradition that kept everyone coming back for more. Your parties were full of libations and fun. You showed us how a camera can capture memories and add beauty to our lives. You brought music into our lives. You taught us how to get back on the horse, you inspired us to win one for the Gipper and strive for perfection. Most of all, you were you. We miss you. Ron is survived by Mary Peterson Siepmann, the love of his life for 56 years. Loving father of Karen (Giles Colahan) Siepmann, Jim (Sue) Siepmann, Martha (Jeff) Wilson, Paul (Sallie) Siepmann and John (Kristie) Siepmann. Grandfather "Bop Bop" to Sarah (Aaron) Wilke, Tyler Olson, Gavin Colahan, Elizabeth and Christopher Siepmann, Richard and George Wilson, Cooper, Sophie, Cole, Jack, Addie, Maggie and Ellie Siepmann. Brother of June (Dex) Bodenbach. Also lovingly remembered by nieces, nephews, other family and friends. Ronald Paul Siepmann was born in Iowa City, IA on May 19, 1932 and raised in Wauwatosa, WI. He attended St. Sebastian's Grade School, Marquette University High School (Class of 50), UW Madison where he was a Chi Phi (Class of 55) and then graduated from Reisch Auctioneering School. Ron was a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Ron was a nationally renowned land planner and a pioneer of conservation subdivision design. He was a founding member of the Waukesha County Land Conservancy. Ron was a past member of the Merton planning commission, the Swallow School Board, past president of the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce and Chenequa Country Club. He was a member of St. Anskar's Episcopal Church in Wisconsin and Good Shepard Episcopal Church in Cave Creek, AZ. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Waukesha County Land Conservancy P.O. Box 2572 Brookfield, WI 53008. Or the Medical College of Wisconsin Research Center in support of prostate or lung cancer P.O. Box 26509, Milwaukee WI 53226. Memorial services will be celebrated in Ron's honor on Thursday May 19, 2011 8:30AM at Good Shepard of the Hills Episcopal Church 6502 E. Cave Creek Rd Cave Creek, AZ 85331. Becker Ritter Funeral Home, 14075 W. North Ave., Brookfield, WI 53005. 262-782-5330 www.beckerritter.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on May 15, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Ron Siepmann

Not sure what to say?





Peter Strupp

May 23, 2011

On behalf of all of us at Good Shepherd of the Hills church in Cave Creek, Arizona, please know that you are all in our prayers. Arizona was Ron and Mary's adopted, winter home, and we here were all the better for having known them. His legacy lives on in our hearts.

Holly Krevitz

May 21, 2011

Dear Karen and Siepmann Family,
I'm so sorry...There are always a few who do so much. What a difference this one man with his loving wife accomplished. I'm now far removed from all of you, yet I have a mental list of what I remember about Ron Siepmann ...wow.

May 21, 2011

There are no words that can express our sorrow that we felt when we heard about Ron's death. He was a wonderful friend, classmate and neighbor. We'd like to express our sympathy and that of all his classmates from St. Sebastian's. Mary, both you and Ron, who so graciously hosted our last 2 St. Sebastian Class of 1946 reunions, will always be remembered and remain in our prayers. We pray that God will guide you and heal you during these difficult times.
Mary Anne and Jim Doyle and Family

Julie Schaefer Bridwell

May 20, 2011

To the Siepmann Family-
It was just last fall that I saw Mary and Ron outside of Costco in Scottsdale, AZ. It was as if we were outside the Piggly Wiggly in Hartland and caught up for a brief moment, as neighbors do in passing.

I will forever cherish the childhood fun memories playing on Beaver Lake. I pray that your family finds peace through all of this and treasures all the wonderful memories Ron has left behind.

Dan Fullerton

May 20, 2011

My sincere sympathy to the entire Siepmann family. I had the pleasure of working for Ron, and with his son Jim, during the summer break of my College Years. He was a real class act. Ron taught me a lot about work ethics, honesty, integrity, and most of all, how to get along with my peers and learn from my mistakes. My mother also worked for Ron as an interior decorator for many years, and she respected him just as much as I do. RIP Ron my friend.

Jeff & Clare Peiffer

May 20, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family, Please know that you are in our hearts and prayers during this time of great loss. Ron's life has been a beautiful example love, integrity and generosity that we can all look to with gratitude as we honor him. We pray that you feel the loving presence of God who is with us in all things and the loving support of friends who share your grief.

Tom Smith

May 20, 2011

To the Siepmann Family
Although we never had the pleasure of meeting Ron, we know that he instilled non-wavering qualities of honesty and integrity in his children. We know this by the actions we have experienced in knowing and working with his son. There is no other better legacy a man can have, then passing these traits on to succeeding generations. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all in this time of loss.

May 20, 2011

Dear Siepmann family, we are sorry for this change in your family circle. We know of your loving family through our granddaughter,Megan Schmidt. Our deepest sympathy.

Bud & Mavis Hicks, Rhinelander, WI.

May 19, 2011

Dear Siepmann family, it is with our sincerest condolences during your time of loss and Heaven's gain. We are with you in thoughts and prayers. Reid, Diane & Matthew Brueser

May 18, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Dan worked for Mr. Siepmann many years ago, as did all the Dunn boys. That was Ron Siepmann, always taking care of family, even if it was the extended family of his employees! This meant a lot to our family and inspired two of the Dunn boys to continue in the building industry. May all the wonderful memories of all the great and compassionate things Ron did, continue to guide your family and help you through this difficult time. Our thoughts are also with Richard's family that they find the strength in Jesus Christ to work through what lays ahead.

God Bless
Dan and Cathy Dunn

Bert Rupp

May 18, 2011

Mr. Siepmann has left a great legacy and has touched the hearts of many. I remember as a child spending the night at Jimmy’s house and the next morning having Mr. Siepmann’s pancakes! They were and still are the best pancakes I have ever had! I think he enjoyed watching me eat pancake after pancake. He was such a loving father! He was always going way beyond just being a dad to make his kids happy. He always made me feel like one of the family. The Siepmann’s are such loving people and I am sure they will continue to carry Mr. Siepmann’s legacy. I am grateful for having known him and his family. It has been said that the true value of a man is not what he has but what he leaves behind. The Siepmann family is a true testament to Ronald Siepmann. My heart and love go out to his family.

Jeanne Vincent

May 17, 2011

Dear Siepmann family,
My deepest condolences to you all as you make this journey through your grief. Ron was a good man and loved by many. I am glad I had the privilege to know him. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Scott Hanna

May 17, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family,

Words cannot express how truly sorry we are for your loss. While we didn't have the fortune of meeting your husband, your father, your brother, your grandfather, your uncle --we do get to work with Paul on a regular basis. It seems we know now, where he gets his work ethic and likeable demeanor from. We want to offer all of you our most sincere condolences. Our hearts go out to all of you at this most trying time. You are in our thoughts and prayers and will remain so in the coming days. We hope you will find comfort through one another and strength from the love that surrounds you.

Our Kindest Regards,
Scott Hanna and QuickMedical Staff

Dave Vandertie

May 17, 2011

Dear Seipmann Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of grief. Cherish the great memories and his wonderful legacy. God Bless You.

Mark Hazelton

May 17, 2011

Although the family will not know me, it was my honor to work with Ron as fellow members of the Desert Foothills Land Trust. His dedication, positive attitude and good humor were always inspirational. His many contributions to habitat preservation will be a lasting legacy.

David & Ann Rodrigues

May 17, 2011

Dear Jim, John, Karen and the Entire Siepmann Family,
May all your loving memories of your wonderful father comfort you and help ease your sorrow during this difficult time. You have been in our thoughts and prayers.
With Deepest Sympathy,

May 17, 2011

Dear Siepmann family, I am SO sorry for your loss. I will always remember Ron as a very kind man. My special condolences go out to my old friend, Martha. You and your family are in my prayers. God bless all of you in this horrific time of your lives. Sincerely, Kari Linnan Dimas (West Palm Beach, FL)

May 17, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family - We were away when this tragic event occurred but as soon as we heard, the entire family have been and remain in our prayers.

May God bless each and every one especially at this very sad time.

Respectfully,

Bob & Carol Janc

wayne mailloux

May 16, 2011

To all the Seipmann family,
Penny and I are neighbors of Ron and Mary In Scottsdale and we offer our sincere condolences for your terrible loss. Our thoughts are with Mary and all of you in your in this painful time.

Wayne & Penny Mailloux

Gini Pringle's Family, Jenn, Brad, and Henry

May 16, 2011

Mary and family,
We are all so upset by Ron's death and our hearts go out to all of you. You both are so dear to my mom and helped her through many difficult times. We are far away, but you are in our thoughts.

Pam Mifflin

May 16, 2011

I only met Mr. Siepmann one time over 20 years ago. You know the proverb that it doesn't make any difference what you say, it's how you make a person feel? Well, that sums up my meeting with Mr. Siepmann. Our meeting had something to do with the computer system at his business. But what I remember is what a nice, truly nice, man he was. I came away from the meeting feeling good about him, about myself, and people in general. To remember that 20 years later--what a tribute to this man. It tells a person a lot about how he lived his life. For those of you who counted him as a friend, I know you must appreciate how lucky and blessed you are. For those of you in his family, my heart breaks with yours.

Pam Mifflin
formerly Brookfield, WI

Scott Simon

May 16, 2011

Jim, John & Family

You have our condolences in this difficult time. Ron was a pioneer and set a standard for the industry to follow. He was an example with his family as well as his business. We pray for your guidance through this change.

Scott & Deb Simon

Jackie Scaffido

May 16, 2011

Siepman Family what an amazing man and family you are. We are truely sorry for your loss. Ron will be in our thoughts and prayers at this time of sadness Scaffido Family

Doug Reasa

May 16, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Ron was a true gentleman and he really will be missed both on and off the course.

May 16, 2011

Karen and Family,

We hold you in our thoughts and prayers at this time of great sadness.

Gary & Jerri Pilgrim

May 16, 2011

Dear Martha and Family,
What an amazing man and family. We are blessed to have a part of his legacy live next to us. Sending our thoughts and sympathy
John, Janice, Sofia and Karli Pfaffl

Jan

May 16, 2011

Mary,
So sorry to hear the sad news about Ron. He will be truly missed. May all the wonderful memories you shared together over the many years, comfort you in your time of sorrow. And most of all, may the Peace of God that excels all thought give you the strength to help you all cope.

Bob and Christine Turowski

May 15, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family,
We are holding you in our hearts and prayers at this time of great loss. You have been fortunate to have Ron in your lives for many wonderful, blessed years...may you find comfort in knowing he is in heavenly peace. God Bless.

Susan Muenster

May 15, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family

We are extending our deepest sympathy and prayers at this very difficult time. May you receive comfort and spiritual guidance for your loving family. Our deepest sympathy.

The Muenster Family

Leslie Volz

May 15, 2011

I was truly sorry to hear of your loss. I will continue to pray for all of your family and their healing. With deepest sympathy, The Volz's

Susan Wehrley

May 15, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family-
While I didn't know your father, I did have the privledge of knowing Jim and John as a tenant in one of their downtown Pewaukee buildings. It was always a pleasure to work with you. Know you are in my heart and prayers as you experience this loss. Blessings-

Janet Christie

May 14, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family:

I was shocked today to hear of Mr. Siepmann's passing. He was such a wonderful man and a joy to see on the golf course. He always had a kind word and a friendly smile. I will surely miss him. My heart aches for his family and friends he left behind.
I am so glad I had the opportunity to work for the Haskell's on the eve of Easter when Mr. and Mrs. Siepmann were honored dinner guests.
Rest in Peace dear Mr. Siepmann. You will be greatly missed.

Deb & Jim Olson

May 13, 2011

Jim, Karen and John, our hearts go out to you and all of your family, at this tragic loss of a wonderful husband, father, friend and mentor. You are blessed to have a strong, close and loving family, something many people never experience in their entire lifetime. We pray you find strength for your journey through the grieving process. May you find comfort and peace in the difficult days that lie ahead.

May 13, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family,

Our hearts go out to you in the loss of Ron. He was an innovative developer and a very respected man. May God comfort you all in your sorrows.

Respectfully,
Tim and Dawn Styza
Merton

Karen Lorenzen-Varacek

May 13, 2011

Dear Siepmann Family. We are so sad and so very sorry. I have wonderful memories of your Dad. I will always remember our family vacation to your house on a lake in upper WI. I think I was 10? I will also always remember many family gatherings at the Lake house. Your Dad was always a perfect host! He made sure we all had plenty to eat and drink!! The last time I saw your Dad he called me KarenHollywood. He told me I looked like a star!! He was so great with the compliments. I know your family will come through this. I have always admired your closeness to each other. I am thinking of you all and send my very deepest sympathies. Please give your Mom a BIG hug from me. Karen Loenenzen-Varacek

Joyce Gagliano

May 13, 2011

I am so sorry to hear this news. Ron was a wonderful man. I am glad I had the chance to meet him. He was a very warm, caring and loving person who will be missed by anyone and everyone that had the chance to meet him. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you in this difficult time.

Robert Teska

May 13, 2011

Dear Mary and family, As Ron's pledge son in Chi Phi and as a colleague of his in land planning and conservation, I have the greatest admiration for his extraordinary qualities as a gentleman and highest standards as a business man. He was an inspiration and will be missed. Peace to all, Bob Teska and Diane

The Zach Family

May 13, 2011

We are very sorry to hear of your loss. He was truly a wonderful man and father. Our hearts and prayers are with your family now and in the future. May you all find peace during these troubled times.

Thomas and Frances Myers

May 13, 2011

Fran and I were saddened to learn of Ron's passing. We had the good fortune to know him and to experience his warmth, wit, charm and generosity. He was a good father, friend and citizen and he will be greatly missed. Fran and I will keep Ron and his family in our thoughts and prayers.

La Don Love

May 13, 2011

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Lori Huntington

May 13, 2011

Our hearts and prayers go out to all of you. If there is anything you need or want please don't hesitate to ask. Lori Huntington and the Staff and Associates of The 1 Stop Shoppe

Val (Barsema) Ritter

May 12, 2011

Dear Mary and Siepmann family -- I was so sorry to hear of the loss of Ron. Your moving tribute to Ron speaks to the wonderful man and father he was. I know how much he will be missed within the family and the community. I, too, was a "summer sitter" in 1967 and I have wonderful memories of that summer and am grateful for how you welcomed me into your family. It helped shape me into the woman I am today. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May you find peace through the wonderful memories and experiences that you shared with your dad.

May 12, 2011

To all the Siepmann family,
Our hearts & prayers go out to all of you at this most difficult time.
This is the most touching obituary we have ever read. You were blessed to have such a remarkable man in your lives!
God Bless & keep the faith,
a St. Bruno family

Kurt Andrae

May 12, 2011

Chief amongst Ron's many accomplishments was the family he & his wife raised. My thoughts go out to the entire Siepmann family but especially my friends Karen, John and, my mentor, Jim. We all share in the shock and sorrow you are feeling but this will soon be replaced by all the loving memories of truly great and humble man.

Karen and Ron Flickinger

May 12, 2011

Mary,
We heard the sad news yesterday as we were traveling home to Indiana. May Jesus be with you all during this time and always. You are in our hearts and prayers.

May 12, 2011

Karen, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. From what you have told Karla and I, your dad was an incredibly kind and generous person and will be missed by all.

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;
Psalm 103:2-3

Brian and Karla Ransom

May 12, 2011

I am looking back 40 plus years to a wonderful growing family. Ron was an especially likable gentleman, and though I have not seen any of the famly in years, still hold very fond memories. God bless Mary and the family to stay together.

Jeanne Reed

Jean Jahnke Bernicky

May 12, 2011

Your life long memories are your foundation each and every day. May you find comfort and strength through these memories and your faith through this difficult journey. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Tom & Marty Pope

May 12, 2011

Marty & I are shocked and sorry for the loss of a friend and honest man. Ron was probably the nicest guy we ever worked with. Death is supposed to be the part of life that relieves our pain and suffering, this one was not. It is even worse that everyone involved is a victim.

Christen Pruscha Le Moine

May 12, 2011

I am very sorry to hear about the loss of Mr. Siepmann. After seeing the interview on t.v. and reading the obituary, I feel as if I knew him. I do know John. We went to high school together. My deepest sympathy and prayers go to all of you during this difficult time.

Clinton & Dorothy Campbell

May 12, 2011

I know you don't know us, but when we heard of your tradegy, it touched us in a way we are unable to explain. Our prayers go out to you and your family. Continue to share the love and keep your memories of him alive.

Kathy Jacques

May 12, 2011

Bless you all and may the good Lord watch over and guide you through this difficult journey. You no doubt have been taught by the best and you are all wonderful examples of your Dad's life works. He would be so proud of all of you. Keep the faith during these times and let us all know how and when we can help.

Len & Marie Riebau

May 12, 2011

Sorry to here of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.

Steve, Nancy, Kate, Jake and Meg Jusseaume

May 12, 2011

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.

Lisa Garvens

May 12, 2011

My thoughts and Prayers are with you and your family. I just started working at The Brewer Company in November 2010 and I feel like a part of my family has been lost.My heart goes out to you and many prayers will always be with you.

Allison McCabe

May 12, 2011

Mary, Jim and the Siepmann Family,
What an incredible loss - Ronnie will be missed by so many. Try to find strength in your many wonderful memories. He was such a great and true friend to my father (Bob) for almost 70 years - perhaps they are together now telling jokes and having some of those "libations".
God Bless,
Allison McCabe

May 12, 2011

My deepest sympathy and caring thoughts go out to the whole Siepmann family................Take special care, Linda Freiberg

Karen Langkau

May 12, 2011

Dear family. What a moving and inspirational obituary. I have seen Ron for many years at our clinic (DDS) and he always brought a smile to my face and day. He will be sadly missed by all who he touched but his smile will never be forgotten-at least not by me!! What an incredible man!!

May 12, 2011

Dear Mrs. Siepmann: On behalf of Aurora Health Care Foundation, we extend our sincere sympathy on the death of your husband. Our hope is that time will help ease the sorrow of your recent loss and bring you peace. Sincerely, Patty Zganjar

Lorry Stiles

May 12, 2011

Dear Mary, Karen, Jim, Martha, Paul, John and family members,
My heart goes out to all of you at this time. Ron and your whole family are such an important part of my fond memories in life. Your family helped shaped who I am today by the love, joy, laughter, and family values always displayed when I was a part of the Seipmann family whether it was babysitting, at a party, you girls singing at my wedding, or Martha babysitting for my boys. Please know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Lorry Ashwood Stiles

Sharon Fitzpatrick

May 12, 2011

Mrs. Siepmann and family, my deepest condolences for your loss. Mary, you and Ron were roll models for so many people. I was a "summer girl" in the late 60's. Your kindness and warmth helped make me the person I am today. I will never ever forget how you accepted me into your family. I was just speaking of you and how much I loved your creative cook-outs on Saturday. Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your loving husband and father.

May 12, 2011

Sorry for your lost Ron was a special person.

Chip and Carrie Bence

louise wisinski

May 12, 2011

What a joyous obituary; what a wonderful man. Sending out my sympathies,

May 12, 2011

To The Siepmann family
We do not know any of you , but want you to know our thoughts and prayers are with every member of your family.

Kim

May 12, 2011

I don't know the family at all, but I must tell you that this is one of the most beautiful and touching obituaries I have seen. I like how you tell how he has impacted your lives. Thank you for sharing.

May 12, 2011

May God bless you and your entire loving family in this time of great sorrow.

Anonymous

Showing 1 - 66 of 66 results

Make a Donation
in Ron Siepmann's name

Memorial Events
for Ron Siepmann

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Ron's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Ron Siepmann's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more