Ronald W. Felch

Ronald Walter Felch, 80, of Schofield, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at House of the Dove in Marshfield, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving family.

Ronnie was born on March 5, 1946, in Merrill, Wisconsin, to Lloyd and Sophie (Raulusonis) Felch. He grew up with a strong work ethic, a generous spirit, and a deep appreciation for family, friends, and community-qualities that remained with him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Bev Hunter, Edward Felch, Carl Felch, Lucy Lahr, Elaine Gorski, James Felch, Roger Felch, and Nancy Ringwelski.

Ronnie found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing, making firewood, and cooking meals for the people he loved. He never passed up the opportunity to work on a puzzle and especially enjoyed tinkering with projects in his garage, where he could often be found fixing, building, or simply figuring out how something worked.

He also had quite the sweet tooth. Dawn's homemade apple pie was always a favorite, but truthfully, he never turned down a homemade dessert, a candy bar, or a bowl of ice cream. Sharing a treat with family and friends was just another one of the many little joys that made him smile.

Some of Ronnie's happiest times were spent up north with his camping family at Northforest Campground, where he built lifelong friendships over more than 30 years. He had a wonderful sense of humor and genuinely enjoyed being around people. Whether he was people-watching, sharing a story, or making someone laugh, Ronnie had a gift for entertaining those around him. A devoted sports fan, he rarely missed watching a Brewers or Packers game.

Ronnie believed in giving back to his community. He was an active member of the Eastern-Hewitt Wausau Lions Club, where he enjoyed serving others and building lasting friendships. He especially looked forward to the club's annual pancake breakfast, spending the day before peeling and shredding potatoes to help prepare the countless potato pancakes served the next morning.

He was also a faithful member of St. Stephen Lutheran Church, serving on the Properties Committee and generously sharing his time and talents to care for his church home. Ron directed and cooked countless Sunday morning breakfasts at the church, welcoming everyone with good food and fellowship. He cherished the opportunity to bring people together around the table and, of course, never missed coffee hour.

Above all else, Ronnie treasured his family. His greatest happiness came from spending time with those he loved, celebrating life's milestones, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations. His kindness, laughter, unwavering willingness to help others, and the love he shared will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn Felch of Schofield; his children, Kelly (Kurt) Gerrow of Weston, Kim Hanneman (Chris) of Wausau, and Ryan Felch of Merrill, Mandy (Jake) Marcell of Weston, Missy (Mike) Behnke of Weston; his siblings, Marie Valent, Blanche Franks, David Felch, Jean Kuss, Clarence (Maxine) Felch, and Sue (Ron) Krueger; seven grandchildren, Aaron (Randi) Felch, Adam Gerrow, Arik (Shawna) Hanneman, James Hanneman (Sara), David Felch, Sophia Behnke, and Layne Behnke; seven great-grandchildren, Madalyn, William, Isabelle, Lillian, Calvin, Liam, and Jocelynn; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Compassus Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity they provided to Ronnie. Your support, comfort, and guidance brought peace not only to Ronnie but also to our entire family during a difficult time. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

A visitation will be held Thursday, July 30th, 2026, from 4 pm to 6 pm at Helke Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held 1pm, Friday, July 31st, 2026, at Helke Funeral Home with Pastor Karoline Schwantes officiating. Entombment to follow at Restlawn Cemetery.