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BORN
1939
DIED
2019
FUNERAL HOME
Ronald Leek Obituary
Ronald Leek, 80, of Rockford, passed away July 10, 2019. He was born February 5, 1939 in Aurora Illinois. Ron was best known as the longtime owner and announcer at Byron Dragway. Ron's contribution to motorsports transcend the race track he called home for over 50 years. As a steward of the sport, Ron held positions at numerous racetracks throughout the Midwest, before acquiring Byron Dragway in 1969. Ron was an extremely gifted promoter and pioneered a seemingly endless list of groundbreaking events which forever revolutionized drag racing. In addition to racing, Ron built and operated "R.L. Leek Industries Inc.", a local trucking company, which was established in 1971. Ron's hard work and dedication to his business were the foundation of his success. Ron married Patricia in 1979, and together they worked and raised their family in Rockford. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
Survivors include wife, Patricia; children, Joe (Dana) Bonavia, Jeffrey (Lisa) Bonavia and Sandra (Chad) Reedy; grandchildren, Kaleb, Madison, Madelyn, Lauren, Jack, Ben and Emma.
Services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL the with the Rev. Randy Heinzeroth officiating. Visitation 4 – 7 p.m. Monday, July 15, 2019 at the funeral home. Burial in St. James Cemetery, Belvidere, IL. The family will host a Celebration of Life from 5-7 p.m. at Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, 200 S. Bell School Rd., Rockford, IL 61108, In lieu of flowers memorials to Rockford Rescue Mission. Send online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Leek
Sponsored by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD - Mulford Chapel.
Isacc Martin Lopez
July 7, 2025
My colleague and I were able to have dinner with Ron a few weeks prior to him passing. He enjoyed that Rib-eye steak. I was able to know Ron for a short time however he made me feel as if we had been friends for ever. RIP Ron.
Doug gibbs
February 11, 2020
I used to work for Ron when l was teenager at drag strip back in early 70s he was great. Has driving was crazy he would pick me and my friend up because we wasnt old enough to drive. I saw were he passed so sorry l all wanted to look him up l moved to AR in 1975 still have family in Rockford.
July 16, 2019
Sorry for the loss of Ron, he was the best story teller EVER.
Ron O'Donnell
Sally "Sam" Miller
July 15, 2019
To all the Leek family, in the worst loss a person can experience. My heart goes out to you.
July 15, 2019
My sincere condolences to Pat and the entire Family. Ron was an innovator and great business person. RIP Ron.
Jack Holt
Windsor, Colorado
Gabby Bleeker
July 15, 2019
I met Ron in the early 50's when I started racing. At that time he was working at Al Thompson's Speed Shop. We became great friends and remained friends over the years. Recently he sent me some photos of my car and we had a nice visit on the phone. I'm glad we had that conversation I will never forget him. God Bless your family.
Ron LaFido
July 15, 2019
GOD SPEED to Pat and You
XOXOXO Love the LaFido Family
Toni Espy
July 14, 2019
You were a light for many Ron, God's peace to you and your family. We will miss you.
Arlee Lay
July 14, 2019
I met Dingy when I was 12. He was living with his Grandparents in Aurora. As time went on he became like my brother even tho I had a brother who was also his good friend. He worked at Vern's Auto parts in N Aurora and became involved with Oswego Drag. He introduced me to my (now deceased) husband. He was in my class at West Aurora. As time went on we lost contact but I will never forget him.RIP my dear friend. Arlee
John Leggero
July 14, 2019
Very Sorry to hear this God Speed Ron.... My Sincere condolences to Your Family
Gerald Sanders
July 13, 2019
Work for him and he was a great boss.Will miss him at Johnny's Pamcakes for breakfast.R.I.P.Prayers to the family and friends.
Art Dodson
July 12, 2019
Thoughts and prayers to the family as we mourn the loss of a man that was bigger than life. One of the greatest people I have had the privilege to know. You will be missed, Sir
Showing 1 - 15 of 15 results
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Memorial Events
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Jul
16
Service
11:00 a.m.
Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD - Mulford Chapel1860 South Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61108
Funeral services provided by:
Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD - Mulford Chapel1860 South Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61108
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