Ronald Gene Addison

PEKIN ~ Ronald "Ron" Gene Addison, 63, of Pekin, passed away at 6:10 p.m. Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at his home.
Born December 30, 1960 in Carbondale to Ronald L. and Rose (Miller) Addison, he married Tammy Bradshaw on January 1, 1996 in Manito.
Surviving are his wife of 28 years; two daughters, Sonya (Patrick) Fitzanko of Milton, Florida and Katrina (Taran) Addison of Gulf Shores, Alabama; one son, Ryan (Samantha) Addison of South Pekin; his mother, Rose Hovis of Chalmette, Louisiana; his father and step-mother, Ron and Ronda Addison of Pekin and nine grandchildren, Kyleigh Fitzanko, Savanah Fitzanko, Raine Robertson, Seth Fitzanko, Avelyn Addison, Kyra Sue Addison, Zeke Fitzanko, Atlas Addison and Gwyndolyn Monroe Addison.
Ron had worked out of the Sheet Metal Worker's Local 1 in Morton for 35 years, before retiring January 1, 2023.
He grew up in Mackinaw, where he enjoyed tubing, canoeing and camping on the Current River. He was a black belt and martial arts instructor.
In his early years, he followed his dreams and moved to Honolulu, Hawaii where he worked at Dole Pineapple. He enjoyed spear fishing the Waikiki Beaches, snorkeling and scuba diving in Hanauma Bay, one of the most prestigious beaches in the world.
He returned to Illinois where he raised his family and proceeded to learn new hobbies and crafts. Ron was always working on new projects and never remained idle. He was a master of all trades. Once he set his mind to something, he seen it through to the end while learning new skills along the way.
Ron cherished his grandkids and would always find something new to teach them. He would modify and rebuild power toys for his grandchildren's enjoyment and always keep them busy.
He was a determined, fearless and a resilient man. He was a friend to all and was always willing to offer a helping hand to someone who needed it. He also enjoyed working in his garden, recycling, traveling and planning adventures.
His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor Larry Sauter will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin.
Memorial contributions may be given to First Baptist Church, 1105 South East Avenue, Manito, Illinois 61546.
To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com