Ronald W. Smith

Ronald "Ron" William Smith passed away on August 21, 2026.

Ron was born on September 25, 1935 to John V. and Ester (McLyman) Smith. After graduation from high school at age 16, Ron furthered his education with the railroad. He married the love of his life, Patricia (Pat) Thresher in Fond du Lac, WI on November 17, 1956. They were married for 68 wonderful years. They were members of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Fox Lake, WI. Together, they had four children. After relocating several times, the couple returned to the family farm. Ron was employed at National Rivet for 42 years.

Ron and Pat moved to Waupun after the children were grown up. They enjoyed small town life and their neighbors. Ron and Pat often walked together in their neighborhood. Ron was a quiet man and good provider to his family. He enjoyed taking care of the songbirds, shopping malls, trains, big equipment, and was the family computer expert. Ron was a loving husband and caretaker to Pat for several years.

Ron is survived by his children, Linda (Jim) Kayzar of Ogema, Beverly Albrecht of Waupun, Anthony (Elizabeth Phillips) Smith of Francis Creek, and Elizabeth Busch Gay of Waupun; grandchildren, Wendy (Sean Hull) Holloway, Robert (Jennifer) Holloway, Bridget (Ryan Loreza) Brevik, Kimberly (Joshua) Grinnell, Peter (Lisa) Albrecht, Aaron (Ashley) Smith, Nathanial (Molly) Smith, and Benjamin (Sarah Benko) Smith, Justin Loeck, and Lindsay (Jordan) Sterk; 13 great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews, Larry (Shirley) Smith, Randy (Vivian Weber) Smith, Mary (Fred) Gray, and Susan (Calvin) Fischer; brothers and sisters-in-law, Tom (Kate) Thresher, Robert (Mary) Thresher, Matt (Ida) Thresher, Don Frank, Gabe Eder, Dick Sabel, and Joanne Thresher; along with many other relatives and friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; his parents, John and Ester Smith; brother, Myron Smith and wife, Viola; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Jerry Thresher, Dorothy Frank, Steve Thresher, Joe Thresher, Janette Thresher, Fran Jones, Sue Thresher, Kathy Sabel, and Lynn Eder; son-in-law, Mark Gay; grandson, Curtis Albrecht; and great-grandchild, Ryan Brevik; and other relatives.

A private celebration of life will take place on October 3, 2026. If desired, memorials in Ron's name may be directed to the Waupun Public Library.