Ronald "Ron" Persson

Ronald Persson, affectionately known as Ron, passed away unexpectedly on March 26, 2026, at the age of 79. Born on April 11, 1946, Ron was a beacon of constant and generous love to all who knew him. His kindness and warmth will be cherished forever.

Ron was the loving husband of the late Roberta "Bobbie" Persson, née Peller, and a devoted father to Jodi (Chris) Newton, Cami (Andrew) Nicol, and Brad (Jenny) Persson. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to Annika, Kelan, Grady, and Linnea Nicol; Gavin, Molly, and Colin Persson; and Lucy Newton. He was the brother of the late Ann (Raymond) Erickson and Richard Persson, and a fond uncle to Jeff Erickson, Tod Erickson, Jill Drebing, Rick Persson, Kevin Peller, Andrew Peller and Steven Peller. His family was the center of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He was loving, friendly, and selfless, and those qualities shaped the way he lived each day.

Ron attended the University of Illinois Chicago where he was a member of the men's hockey team and later earned his master's degree from the University of Arizona. He carried the lessons of education, hard work, and perseverance throughout his life, and he shared those values generously with others. His commitment to learning reflected the same steady dedication he brought to every role he held, whether in the classroom, on the court, or at home with his family.

Known to his students Mr. Persson or Coach Persoon taught physical education at LaGrange Highlands Middle School from 1970 until his retirement in 2004. He often referred to LaGrange Highlands as Camelot, a special place where he made lifelong friends and touched the lives of countless children. He took great pride in his work and in the relationships he built with students, colleagues, and families over the years. While teaching, he also coached soccer, track, softball and basketball. Coaching was a life-long passion. Inspired to continue coaching post-retirement he coached Freshman B basketball at Oak Lawn Community High School. His dedication to young people and to athletics left a meaningful and enduring impact. Throughout his life he held a variety of jobs to make ends meet, Countryside Recreation Director, basketball referee, and Hinswood Pool Manager just to name a few. These positions gave him countless stories and lasting memories.

Sports were a lifelong passion for Ron, and he especially loved cheering for the Chicago White Sox, the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Blackhawks and the Illinois Fighting Illini. He followed his teams with enthusiasm and loyalty, and he enjoyed the excitement and camaraderie that sports brought to his life. He also loved being outdoors. He treasured camping trips with his family and friends where he found joy in nature, companionship, and adventure. Bike the Drive was another favorite yearly outing, and he enjoyed tracking each year's miles traveled and the time it took, always appreciating the experience as much as the destination.

Ron was known as the mayor of Nantucket Drive, a title that reflected the lasting relationships he built with his neighbors and the warmth he brought to his community. He had a gift for connection and made people feel welcome, valued, and remembered. Ron's presence was steady, kind, and deeply appreciated by all who knew him.

Ron was very proud of his Swedish heritage, and he delighted in sharing that pride with others. He was especially known for the glögg he gave to family and friends during the holiday season, a cherished tradition that reflected his thoughtfulness and affection. He found joy in the simple acts that brought people together and in the traditions that made family gatherings memorable.

Most of all, Ron loved and supported his family, especially his grandchildren, who meant the world to him. He was happiest when helping them in any way he could, and he took great pride in watching them grow. His love was constant and generous, and his family will forever remember his encouragement, his humor, and his unwavering support. His life was a beautiful example of devotion, kindness, and humility, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held on Monday, April 6, 2026 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Avenue, Darien. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 10:30 am on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Interment services will be privately held