Richard Quentin Ronayne

Obituary of Richard Quentin Ronayne
Richard Quentin Ronayne
November 24, 1941 – May 11, 2024
On the morning of Saturday, May 11th, Richard "Dick" Ronayne passed away peacefully at United Hospital in St. Paul, MN after a long battle with interstitial lung disease (ILD). Dick was 82 years old.
Dick was born in St. Paul, MN to Lucille and Willard Ronayne on November 24, 1941. Dick was an identical twin with brother, Robert (Bob). In 1963, Dick married Lucy and together they had three children, Christy, Ronald, and Bradley. In 1972, Lucy suddenly and tragically passed away due to a brain aneurysm. In 1973, Dick married Rita and together they had a son, Raymond. Dick worked at 3M for 35 years in the field of chemical engineering and retired in 2003.
Growing up, Dick was very active and enjoyed going roller skating with his brothers and friends. Dick worked summers in northern MN at Balsam Lake Resort where he helped maintain cabins, groundskeeping, fishing boats and other duties. In his late 30s, Dick became an avid runner and ran many marathons including both the Twin Cities and Grandma's marathon. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, camping and fishing with his family. For many years, Dick and the family would vacation at Pixie Point Resort in Akeley, MN where many great memories were made. During the past 20 years of his life, Dick loved spending time with family and friends at the cabin on Loon Lake in Comstock, WI. This was his happy place and a peaceful retreat.
Dick was a kind and generous soul who did nothing but give to others. If there was ever a time when someone needed help, Dick was there without question. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and telling good "dad" jokes. He was a hardworking, fun spirited, and positive person who viewed the glass as half full. He always looked on the brighter side of life.
Dick was preceded in death by his first wife, Lucy; his parents, Lucille and Willard; brother Donald; sons Ronald and Bradley and nephew Colin. He is survived by his siblings, Bob (Lolita), Carol, Steve (Celi) and special sister-in-law and caretaker, Chris; ex-wife Rita; daughter Christine (Brian), son Raymond (Ashley); grandchildren, Cole, Carter, Cooper, Finley and Declan; special nephew Andy (Robin) and niece Renee (Mike) and many more beloved nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces. A mass of Christian burial will be held at the Church of St. Peter in North St. Paul, MN on Thursday, May 23rd at 12:00 pm, with visitation one hour prior. Interment St. Mary's Cemetery following the service.
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