Ronald Wayne Weimer

1938 - 2026

Ronald Wayne Weimer
Born: February 26, 1938 in Washington, PA
Died: January 14, 2026 in Joliet, IL
Ronald Wayne Weimer, 87, passed away on January 14, 2026, at Lightways Hospice in Joliet, IL. He was born on February 26, 1938, in Washington, PA. Ron was a patriot who proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1956 to 1961. His service aboard the USS Whitehall was a source of lifelong pride, and he often told stories of his time at sea-including how he would voluntarily take over the galley to cook whenever the ship's designated cook got seasick. He carried that Navy pride throughout his life, rarely seen without his USS Whitehall hat and always eager to swap stories with fellow retirees.
After his service, Ron settled in Chicago, where he embraced life with a spirit of adventure. In those early years, he could be found captaining his leisure boat at Burnham Harbor, riding his motorcycle, or driving his muscle car. It was during this vibrant chapter of his life that he met his beloved wife, Ruth. Together they built a life in Illinois, and Ron spent the last 40 years as a resident of Plainfield Township.
In 1970, Ron began a dedicated career at the American Can Company, where he worked until his retirement. In his later years, Ron found great enjoyment in cooking. Together, he and Ruth were the heart of every holiday, always hosting the extended family. His famous hand-carved watermelon boat baskets were the legendary centerpieces of many family parties.
Diagnosed with leukemia in 2022, Ron faced his illness with the same grit he showed in the Navy. He fought valiantly, achieving a remission from 2023 to 2025 that gifted him cherished extra time with family and friends.
During this time, he bought a new sporty car and enjoyed living "high on the hog," as he would say.
Ron believed in giving back and volunteered as a delivery driver for Meals on Wheels. He also cherished the camaraderie of his friends at the Instant Replay sports bar, where he formed deep, enduring bonds over countless games of darts. Those who knew Ron will miss his quick wit and sharp sense of humor; he always had a story to tell or a one-liner ready to brighten the room.
Survivors Ron is survived by his devoted loved ones, Christy Mair-Pemble and Mark Pemble; his daughter, Sandi (Bruce) Oyenik; his grandchildren, Victoria Salvage, Cynthia Francois-Weimer, Elizabeth Thacker, Nicholas Smith, and great-grandchildren. He is fondly remembered by the nieces and nephews who shared a lifelong bond with him, and by the cherished neighbors and friends who became his chosen family. He also carried on cherished friendships with friends of his late son and late grandson.
Preceded in Death He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruth B. Weimer; his son, Wayne R. Weimer; and his grandson, Wayne C. Weimer.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Committal Service with full Military Honors will be held on his birthday, Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery (20953 W Hoff Rd, Elwood, IL), where he will be laid to rest with his wife, Ruth. Guests are asked to arrive by 12:45pm for the procession at 1:00pm. A Celebration of Life luncheon will follow the service; details to be announced at the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ron's name to Meals on Wheels (https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/) or the
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) (https://bloodcancerunited.org/) would be appreciated.
Overman-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Plainfield, IL was entrusted with arrangements. For information please call 815/436-9221 or visit www.overman-jones.com