Ronald Keith Nemanic

Ronald Keith Nemanic

Ronald "Ron" Keith Nemanic, age 87, of Hoyt Lakes, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Ron was born on January 7, 1938, in Biwabik, Minn., to Frank and Rose (Bonacci) Nemanic of Aurora. A proud graduate of Aurora High School, Class of 1956, Ron played football for the Blackhawks before continuing his education at Virginia Junior College and later the University of Minnesota Duluth, where he also played football. It was at UMD that he met the love of his life, Sandra Armentrout, and the two were married in 1961-a partnership that would span more than six decades. Ron dedicated his professional life to teaching and coaching, most notably as a teacher and head football coach at Gilbert High School, where he led the Buccaneers with enthusiasm, integrity, and a true love for the game. He influenced countless students and athletes throughout his career, many of whom remember him for his steady guidance and encouragement both on and off the field.

Ron and Sandy made their home in Hoyt Lakes, where they raised their two children, Ron and Wendy. Deeply invested in his community, Ron served two terms as Mayor of Hoyt Lakes during the 1990s. He took great pride in serving his hometown and helping it thrive. Ron was also an avid hunter and fisherman, finding decades of enjoyment in the outdoors. Whether he was out on the lake or in the woods, he found peace and purpose in nature and loved sharing those moments with friends and family. Ron will be remembered for his dedication to family, his warm sense of humor, his love of the outdoors, and his unwavering pride in his community.

He is survived by his loving wife Sandy; son Ron; daughter Wendy (Bryan) Johnson; grandchildren Alex, Andrew, Jordan, and Peyton; brother Lance (Janet née Beloy); and his very beloved kitty, Tillie.

He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Rose Nemanic; parents-in-law Woodrow and Anne (Henigman) Armentrout; infant daughter Lee Ann; brother-in-law Woodrow Armentrout; sister-in-law Judith Armentrout Langton; niece Gina; and nephews Geoffrey and Glenn. Ron's life was defined by service, love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the natural world-and the legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire all who knew him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Christopher Whiting for his many years of dedicated care, and to nurse Jane and the compassionate team at Essentia Hospice for their unwavering support and kindness in helping the family navigate this most difficult time.

Memorial Mass will be 11 a.m. Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Our Lady of Hope Parish in Aurora with Fr. David Forsman as celebrant. Friends may gather one hour prior to the mass at church. Burial will be in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Aurora.

Arrangements by Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Aurora.