Ronald Alexander Krause

Ronald Alexander Krause, age 73, passed peacefully on Monday, February 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born April 19, 1952, in Forest Park, IL to Alexander and Loretta Krause, Ron lived a life defined by service, leadership, curiosity, and deep devotion to those he loved.

Ron was a beloved principal, educator, and mentor. He devoted more than 35 years to education, serving as a teacher, dean, assistant principal, and principal. A natural-born leader, Ron spent his career uplifting others by mentoring colleagues, inspiring students, serving on school boards, and generously volunteering his expertise. Ron continued to serve on the school board of his high school alma mater until his passing.

Ron loved music. In his youth he could be found conducting the marches of John Philip Sousa in his childhood home. He graduated from Bradley University as a music education and voice major, and always surrounded himself with music.

Ron's many voices will ring for generations: his rich singing voice in church, the National Anthem at a Bears game, or the 7th inning stretch at a Sox game; his mentor voice delivering his infamous one-on-one speech that helped countless people discover their life's passion; or his principal voice offering an inspiring first-day-of-school address that celebrated the beauty of a fresh start and the possibilities that await us. His voice was powerful and he always used it for good.

Ron approached retirement with the same enthusiasm he brought to his career. Together with his cherished wife BJ, Ron explored the world, seeking fun and adventure, and soaking up its many wonders. An avid photographer, Ron brought his camera everywhere they went; from Hawaii to the wilds of Borneo, to the pyramids of Egypt, Ron captured the beauty and richness of it all to share with those he loved.

Family was the center of Ron's life. No matter how busy he was, his priority was being what he coined as #ProudPapa. It didn't matter if it was a local parade or The Macy's Day Parade, the Kidz Kabaret or the Shanghai Oriental Arts Center - Ron was always there, bursting with pride. His presence was unmistakable, often announced by his loud, trademark whistle that let everyone know #ProudPapa was in the house and bragging to anyone who would listen who his children were.

Ron loved to teach, to inspire, and to draw out the very best in people. He shared knowledge freely, encouraged growth relentlessly, and filled in the gaps when someone needed support. He made certain his children, stepchildren, and grandchildren all knew how deeply loved and valued they were, bursting with pride so boldly he expressed it as though the buttons might pop off his shirt. He cherished gathering his large blended family together to share laughter, stories, and, above all, good food. And Ron loved to cook! While many knew Ron as a vibrant extrovert, he was most at peace behind the camera lens, quietly observing and capturing the beautiful life he had built.

Ron is survived by his loving wife, Barbara "BJ" Rahn; his beloved children Kate (Jeff) Ross, Kent (Ellie) Krause, Kassy Krause, Al (Frankie) Rahn, Pete Rahn, and Zach (Maggie) Rahn; his treasured grandchildren Isaac Ross, Cainan Scalf-Rahn, Thomas Krause, Jonathan Krause, Arlo Rahn, and a new grandson on the way; his adoring sister Nancy Kriske (George); and many loving nieces and nephews.

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, February 8, 12:00 Noon until 5:00 PM at the Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St., Naperville. An additional memorial visitation will be held on Monday, February 9, 10:00-11:00 AM at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 815 S. Washington St., Naperville. A Celebration of Ron's life will follow at 11:00 AM with Pastor Brian Wise officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Music Ministry at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church.