Ronald J. Lechmaier

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald John Lechmaier, who left us on September 30, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on November 20, 1946, to Hedwig (nee Rau) and John Lechmaier, Ron was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend who touched the lives of all who knew him with his warmth and passion for life.
Ron graduated from Rib Lake High School in 1964 and was sent to Germany while serving in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1968. He and Phil were married in 1970.
Working at Harley Davidson spurred Ron's love of motorcycles, especially his H-D Heritage Softail Classic, which he enjoyed riding with Phil on the back. He was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers and Milwaukee Brewers, and nothing made him happier than cheering on his teams, often surrounded by family and friends. He and Phil cherished their winters in Naples, Florida, where they escaped from the cold Wisconsin winters with a close group of friends.
Family meant everything to Ron. He shared a special bond with his son Ronnie, whom he supported in his passion for airplanes. Together they built remote control airplanes and studied for the ground school exam. He even bought a Cesna 152 so Ronnie could train and eventually earn his pilot's license. Ron always encouraged his daughter Lisa to strive for her best, famously telling her to "beat those boys." He adored his grandchildren and cherished their time together. He enjoyed taking them on motorcycle rides and teaching them how to waterski.
Ron also loved playing Sheepshead with his brothers and spent many hours over family holidays laughing and ribbing his brothers around the card table.
Deeply loved by his wife Philomenia (nee Knorn), children Lisa (Brad) Fentress and the late Ron Lechmaier Jr. Grandsons Isaac and Quinn Fentress. Siblings Patricia (the late Archie) House, the late Jim (Debbie) Lechmaier, Daniel (the late Jeanie) Lechmaier, Gene (Cathy) Lechmaier, Chuck (the late Charlene) Lechmaier and John (Barb) Lechmaier. Further cherished by numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) or the UW-Madison Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (https://www.wiscmedicine.org/alzheimers).
Rest in peace, Ron-your memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew you.