Ronald William Bottens

Our beloved Ronald (Ron) William Bottens passed away on November 29, 2024, in Elmhurst, Illinois, surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Born in Oxly, Missouri, in 1941, Ron was the youngest of thirteen siblings, a role that shaped his boundless energy, humor, and hardworking nature. From his early days on the farm to his later years as a gardener and caretaker, Ron lived a life deeply rooted in family, community, and the land he loved.
Ron met Kay, the love of his life, at Braidwood High School in Wilmington, Illinois. They married in 1961 and built a beautiful life together, raising their three children-Sherri (Wayne) Crawford, Vicki Luczynski, and Doug Bottens-in Elmhurst. Their love and dedication to one another inspired everyone who knew them.
Ron retired from American Airlines after a dedicated career but quickly found new ways to keep busy, working for the Elmhurst Park District and the City of Elmhurst. Never one to sit still, Ron poured his energy into his passions-mowing lawns, tending his garden, tinkering with tractors and lawnmowers, and sharing the fruits (and vegetables) of his labor with neighbors and friends.
A farmer at heart, Ron was also a skilled mechanic, and an unofficial wildlife manager, often relocating squirrels and other critters with a twinkle in his eye. His meticulous care for his lawn and love of leaf blowing may have amused (and occasionally vexed) his neighbors, but it was a reflection of his commitment to excellence in all he did.
Ron was a proud and devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kay; his children; his grandchildren, Donielle Schmelter, Sydni (Doug) Stocker, Alyssa Luczynski, Alaina Bottens, and Aubrey Luczynski; and his great-grandchild, Brody Stocker. He also leaves behind his brother, Charles Edward, brother-in-law, Carl Sallee, and many cherished nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, cousins, and friends.
Ron will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, coworker, and neighbor. His warmth, humor, and steadfast spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
A memorial service to celebrate Ron's life will be held at a future date. Updates will be shared here.
Ron's life was a testament to the joys of hard work, family, and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him.