Ronald Wallenberg

Ronald Wallenberg passed away on Christmas Day, 12/25/2024, at the age of 85 years old. He was living at the MN Veterans Home in Minneapolis. He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather.
Ron was born on January 19, 1939, in Hallock, MN, to Pearl (Zahara) and Edward Wallenberg. He was raised on a farm near Lancaster, MN, and learned his strong work ethic by working on the farm. In high school he was involved in several activities including the Future Farmers of America and Vocational Agriculture. He graduated from Lancaster High School in 1957 and then entered the U.S. Army. Ron's time in the service became a defining feature of life.
Ron began his service as a combat engineer, operating heavy equipment. He was then selected to serve as part of an elite squad of demolition specialists and snipers. Trained to be ready 24/7, he used his skills and training throughout his life.
After an honorable discharge from the Army, Ron worked at Kittson County Soil Conversation for a few years before graduating from Moler Barber College in Fargo, ND. This led to a sixty-year career as a barber. Over the years, he was simply referred to by all who knew him as "Ron the Barber," and he expressed great pride in his work.
Ron married Eleanor (Jansen) Wallenberg on June 8, 1963, in Hallock, MN. They lived in Dickinson and Grand Forks, ND before settling in Warren, MN, in 1968. Ron's Barber Shop became a fixture on main street until he retired in 2022. At the time of Ron's retirement, he was the second oldest working barber in MN. He always expressed appreciation for his loyal customers, especially those that lived a long distance away. Many would 'save' their haircuts for when they were returning to Warren for a special occasion. Ron would also go to the county jail, nursing home, and even people's homes to give them their last haircut. Customers confided in Ron, telling him the most intimate aspects of their lives. He often consoled, counseled, and yes, sometimes even scolded people. They always knew Ron had their best interests at heart.
Ron was an active member of Grace United Methodist Church. His faith was incredibly important to him, and this served him in times of joy and hardship. He was also a member of the American Legion and an active Pony Booster for Warren students. Ron's passion was his yard. His lawn looked more like carpet, without a weed in site. He loved gardening and raising prize winning flowers for the county fair. He also enjoyed fishing, fixing things, and spending time with his family. His pride and joy were his only granddaughter, Emma, who he showered with praise to anyone who would listen.
Left to mourn his passing is his son, Bradley (Michael Kirch) Wallenberg of Edina, MN; granddaughter, Emma Wallenberg-Kirch of Edina, MN; brother, Jim (Irene) Wallenberg of Lancaster, MN; sister-in-law, Donna Jackson of Hallock, MN; nine nieces and nephews, as well as numerous great nephews and nieces.
Ron is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Eleanor Wallenberg; his parents Pearl and Ed Wallenberg; sister Caryn Murry; and brother-in-law Morris Murry.
Ron did not want a funeral. Instead, asking people to celebrate his life with a "good meal." He and Eleanor will both be interred at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to Warren/Alvarado/Oslo Education Foundation (PO Box 125, Warren, MN 56762) where a scholarship will be established in Ron and Eleanor's name, or to Grace United Methodist Church (505 N. 3rd St. Warren, MN 56762).