Ronald M. Dertinger

1934 - 2025

Ronald "Ron" Dertinger, age 90, of Norwood-Young America, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025. Born on December 10, 1934, in Perham, MN, he was the beloved son of Gregory and Edna (Lange) Dertinger.

Ron lived a few doors down from Monica Weinzierl. The two began dating when Ron returned to Waconia after his time in the Army and were married on April 23, 1960. Ron worked for Pioneer Telephone in Aitkin, MN where the two were blessed with five wonderful sons over the next six years.

While in the Army, Ron was stationed in Panama for 2 1/2 years working in the telecommunications office. One memorable Sunday, while working alone, he received a last-minute communication that President Eisenhower's motorcade would be passing by his office. As the motorcade approached, he ran out to the street and saluted the President, who was riding in an open-air vehicle. To Ron's surprise and lasting pride, President Eisenhower saw him, turned, and saluted back.

In 1967, the family moved to Norwood-Young America and Ron quickly became deeply involved in the community. He was a member of the Waconia Drum and Bugle Corps, served diligently on the Ascension Catholic Church Parish Council and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Ron also served the city of Young American as a 20-year member of the fire department eventually becoming Assistant Fire Chief and served on both the Planning Commission and the City Council.

Ron retired in 1997, completing a 35-year career at the telephone company. He and Monica cherished their travels, embarking on multiple trips to Europe and Hawaii, visiting Japan, and enjoying winters in Arizona. He also put his creative skills to work artfully creating hundreds of stained-glass pieces, many of which he and Monica gifted to family and friends and donated to various organizations for fundraising events. These beautiful pieces will serve as a lasting memory of Ron's dedication to family, friends, and community.

Ron was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Monica; his parents; and his mother and father-in-law, Dolores and Francis Weinzierl.

Ron's life was marked by service, love, and dedication to his family and community. His legacy will be cherished by his loving family: sons Michael (Susan) Dertinger, Mark (Lisa) Dertinger, David (Cathy) Dertinger, John (Daun) Dertinger and Gregg (Diane) Dertinger; grandchildren Johanna (Chris) McGlauchlen, Joseph Dertinger, Gina Dertinger, Jessica Dertinger, Justin (Sierra) Dertinger, and Elena Dertinger; great granddaughter Sawyer Dertinger and baby girl McGlauchlen due in August; brothers and sisters-in-law Susan (Larry) Kaplan, Barbara (Don) Wagener, Tom (Jacqueline) Weinzierl, Nancy (Ed) Krenzelok, John (Sharon) Weinzierl, Chris (Jerry) Weiland, Dick (Diann) Weinzierl and Pauline (Roger) Nagelschneider; and many dear friends. His warmth and spirit will be deeply missed by all who know him.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 AM Friday, May 16, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Community (41 E. First St.) in Waconia with Fr. Stan Mader as Celebrant of the Mass. Gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers or memorials, the family invites donations to Shriner's Hospital Twin Cities.

Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home in Waconia, 952-442-2121, www.johnsonfh.com.