Ronald Francis Nalepinski

Ronald Francis Nalepinski, 85, of Edina, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on July 16, 2025, after complications related to bladder cancer. He had recently celebrated his 85th birthday surrounded by those he loved most.

Ron was born on July 12, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to William (Bill) and Marcella (Marcy) Nalepinski. After growing up in Wisconsin and proudly serving four years in the U.S. Navy directly after high school, Ron eventually relocated to Minnesota due to a job transfer in 1976, where he lived the remainder of his life.

Over the years, Ron wore many hats — professionally and otherwise. His varied careers included roles as an inspector at Milwaukee Electric Tool, an engineer for Harley-Davidson, a salesman for Clark Forklift, a handyman through his own "Adarondeck" services, and the self-proclaimed “tooth fairy” (driver) at Udell Dental Lab. He brought a unique mix of humor, ingenuity, and integrity to every job he took on.

He was especially proud of his lifelong involvement in Freemasonry and the Shriners Hospital. Among his most honorable roles were serving as Assistant Chief of Staff and Chief of Staff for the Zuhrah Shrine, as well as Drum Major of the Zuhrah Bagpipe and Drum Corps — positions that reflected both his leadership and his love of tradition.

Ron is survived by his daughters, Tracie Hood and Julie Gunderson (Tom); stepchildren Krista Phelps (Jon) and Roger Appelholm (Ange); and his beloved grandchildren Claire Gunderson (Brady), Nick Hood, Zack Hood, Lou Gunderson, Gunnar Appelholm, and Frankie Appelholm. He also leaves behind the mother of his children, Barbara Nalepinski.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Sharon Nettle; his significant other, Peggy Appelholm; and his son-in-law, Bobby Hood.

Ron enjoyed life to the fullest. He was a good and loyal friend to many, known for his sarcastic wit, sharp sense of humor, and being a straight shooter. Whether he was building toy chests, wall decor, or entire decks, Ron always had a project — and a joke — ready. He often was the life of the party and made everyone feel like they belonged.

A very special thank you to the team at Minnesota Hospice (Crystal, Savannah, and Nikki) and Dr. Jacob Liston. Your care of Ron meant so much to him and to his family.

There will be a celebration of life visitation from 3-5PM with a memorial service following at 5PM Friday August 1, 2025 at Kessler & Maguire Funeral Home, 640 W. 7th Street, St. Paul, MN.

A private burial will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital.