Obituary published on Legacy.com by Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services on Dec. 22, 2025.
Ronald G. Janes, known affectionately as Ron to his friends and family, was called home to the Lord on December 20, 2025, after battling cancer. Born on July 7, 1949, in
Jackson, Michigan, Ron's life journey of 76 years took him to his final earthly home in
Cambridge, Minnesota, where he passed away surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
Ron's life was a testament to his trust in God's love, his enduring love for his wife Darline of 48 years, and his deep commitment to his family. Together, they raised three remarkable sons: Jason and his wife Tammie, Joshua and his wife Brittney, and Jacob and his wife Jacqueline. Ron's legacy continued to grow with the joy of his seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, each of whom he cherished with all his heart. His family was the cornerstone of his existence, and he dedicated himself to ensuring their happiness and well-being.
Ron's older brother Ray (Pat), younger brother Bill (Denise), and sister Dianne remember him as courageous, generous, adventurous and willing to lend a helping hand.
Professionally, Ron's passion for hospitality and cooking led he and Darline to own and operate three successful restaurants in Montana over a span of 20 years. His culinary skills brought joy to many and left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of tasting his dishes. Ron's work ethic was further exemplified in his nearly 40-year career as a truck driver.
Ron's Christian faith was the guiding force in his life. He lived by the principles of his belief, showing love, compassion, and generosity to everyone, he met. He was a talented communicator who would relate Biblical truths and stories in ways that made the love of God relatable and come to life. He wanted everyone to love God and be "on the winning team." He loved with a spirit of grace and humility.
An avid outdoorsman, Ron enjoyed hiking and hunting the mountains of Montana. He found solace and contentment in fishing on the lake, which he often referred to as his happy place. His adventurous spirit shone through in his love for drag racing, where he built and raced his prized 1971 Nova. Ron's creativity was not limited to the kitchen or the racetrack; he was also a talented builder, often found building and fixing things in his garage, a space filled with memories of laughter and ingenuity.
Ron's sense of humor was one of his most endearing qualities. He had a knack for lifting spirits and spreading joy with his quick wit and optimistic outlook on life. His courage in the face of adversity, his generosity towards others, and his unwavering optimism defined his character and left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
As we celebrate Ron's life, we are reminded of the impact one person can have on so many. His life was a journey of courage in adversity, wit, joy and laughter, and his undying faith in God. His memory will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him. Ron's spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all the lives he touched with his wit, love, strength, and generosity.
Let us take comfort in knowing that Ron is now at peace in the eternal embrace of our Heavenly Father. We give thanks for the life of Ronald G. Janes, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He will forever be in our memories and in the legacy he leaves behind.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ronald George Janes, please visit our floral store.