Ronald John Obara

It is with deep love and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald John Obara on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, at the age of 82. He lived a remarkable life filled with family, love, laughter, dedication, charity, hard work, and treasured friendships.
Born on November 21, 1942, in Chicago, IL, Ron grew up in the close-knit Southeast Chicago neighborhood of Hegewisch alongside his older brother, Wally, his twin brother, Don, and his younger sister, Rosie. He attended Chicago Vocational High School before earning an Associate's Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from Purdue University. While in High School, he was a member of the Chicago Cavaliers, a drum and bugle corps that traveled and competed around the country. Shortly after, he joined IBEW Local 134 as an electrician-a career that would span decades.
It was during this time that Ron met the love of his life, Ann Liszka. The two were married on May 22, 1965, and began their life together in Hegewisch. They welcomed their son, Ronnie, in 1967, followed by their daughter, Venus, a few years later. The family then moved to McHenry, IL, where they made countless memories living along the Fox River-boating, snowmobiling, and admiring the breathtaking sunsets. Ron was known for his legendary summer parties, often roasting a whole pig and lamb alongside his father-in-law, Walter Liszka, and his best friend, Bob Randall. These gatherings drew more than 100 guests each year.
Dedicated to his family, Ron loved participating in YMCA programs, such as the Indian Guides and Indian Princesses, with his children. He enjoyed attending the meetings, completing activities to earn patches and feathers, and camping together.
Ron was deeply committed to the Masons, later joining the Shriners, where his passion for service flourished. He participated in numerous Shrine organizations, including the Air Squadron after earning his pilot's license, the Mini Bikes, and the ROJ. In 2001, he served as Potentate of Tebala Temple in Rockford, which deepened his involvement with the Shriners Children's Hospital in Oak Park, IL. He went on to serve many years on the hospital's Board of Governors and ultimately became an Emeritus Member.
In 1989, Ron founded Title Electric Company after years of hard work and dedication to his craft. The business thrived under his leadership, and in 1995, he welcomed his son into the company's management. Ron retired in 2005 but continued to support the business for another 15 years, lending his expertise and providing assistance with accounting and other support tasks around the shop. Retirement allowed him to travel, continue his charitable work, enjoy thrilling adventures such as zip-lining, skydiving, bungee jumping, and spend time with his granddaughters.
Ron will be remembered for his humor, his ability to bring light into any situation, his compassion, and his generosity toward others. He had a gift for solving problems and for defusing tension with kindness and wit.
Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Ann; his sister, Rosemarie (Joe Hodges); his children, Ronnie (Ina) and Venus (Adam Beake); his granddaughters, Tiana and Zofia; and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Helen; his older sister Rosemarie (who passed before his birth); his brother Walter; and his twin brother Donald.
A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Justen Funeral Home on Saturday, October 18th, 2025. A Masonic service will begin at 3:30 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 4:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and pay their respects in memory of Ron. For information, please call the Justen Funeral Home at 815-385-2400 or visit www.justenfh.com, where friends and loved ones may share memories of Ron on his tribute wall.
In place of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Shriners Children's Hospital in Oak Park, IL. Alternatively, consider taking a moment to plant a tree, hug someone dear to you, or watch a sunset in Ron's honor.