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Ronald Thornblade
1950 - 2025
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Ronald Thornblade Obituary
Born on June 30, 1950, Ronald graduated from Mason City High School before serving honorably in the United States Air Force. He went on to build a dedicated career in both the restaurant and real estate industries, where his strong work ethic and commitment left a lasting impression.
Ronald was a loving husband and father who cherished time spent with his family. He is survived by his wife, Betty; daughters, Laurie Popowski and Melissa (Gene) Cortesio; grandchildren, Malory (Daniel) Porter, Ben Holck, Anthony Cortesio, Samantha Popowski, and Sofia Cortesio; and great-grandchildren, Elijah Porter and Emma Porter. He is also survived by his siblings, MaryJo (Jerry) Nelson, Nancy (Kurt) Johnson, Sally (Graydon) Lau, Barbara Rasmussen, and Tim Thornblade.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Helen Thornblade; brother, Tom Thornblade; and sisters, Jane Alvarez and Suzanne Hagemirer.
Ronald had a passion for working on cars and enjoyed building model cars, assembling intricate wood 3D puzzles, and coloring. His warm personality made him a friend to many-often after just one meeting-and he was always willing to lend a helping hand.
A Celebration of Life will be held on November 1, 2025, in Surprise, Ariz. at Melissa Cortesio home.
Ronald's memory will live on through the love he shared with his family and the friendships he built throughout his life. May his legacy bring comfort to all who knew him.
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Sponsored by Surprise Funeral Care.
5 Entries
Opal Sears/Mason City, Iowa
October 23, 2025
Barbara and family, I'm sorry to read of the passing of Ronald. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Greg Hickle
October 22, 2025
My wife and I were high school friends with Ron and Betty. We have some great memories.
Melissa, we live in Mesa and would love to come to his Celebration of Life. Please email me the time and address. THANX!
Paul and Tommie Turvold Mann
October 22, 2025
I am so sad to see the loss of a great man. Wish I could give Betty a big hug. We had lots of wonderful memories start in high school.
Michael Flatness
October 22, 2025
Ron was a great friend who would do anything to help you. I have known Ron since 1967 and have many wonderful memories of him. Too many to list. Ron was a devoted and faithful husband, father, Grandfather, a US Air Force veteran, and I am honored and grateful and proud to have known him for all of these years. The world is a better place because of Ron.
Rest in peace my friend, you mission has been accomplished.. Prayers for Betty and the family.
Linda Forthmann
October 22, 2025
Im so sorry to hear of Ron's passing. Sending love and hugs to Laurie, Melissa and Betty at the difficult time. He was a great guy. Linda Forthmann
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