Obit: Zahnen, Ronald R. (1948 - 2018)

Transcriber: Robert Lipprandt
bob@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Brugge, Emmerich, Holtz, Purdy, Welker, Zahnen

----Source: the Star News (Medford, WI) 5/29/2018

Zahnen, Ronald “Ron” R. (11 MAR 1948 - 11 MAY 2018)

Ronald “Ron” R. Zahnen, 70, of Medford, passed away on May 11, 2018 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield from health complications.

Ron was born on March 11, 1948 in Chicago to John L. and Marie Zahnen. He grew up and graduated in Chicago. His father taught him the art of hunting and fishing, which he was avid about.

He became a professional industrial and commercial painter. He was an excellent cook, chef and played baseball and football. On one of the many fishing trips to the northwoods with Rich Freeland, he met Clayton Brugge and his family and he soon moved to Medford. He lived with Clayton and his family and a lot of good times were had. Josh became his mechanic and also painted a truck for him. Travis was his go-to sports help and Al was his little buddy.

Ron met and married Carol (Holtz) Purdy on Oct. 5, 1991, on opening day, in a duck blind built by Ron. They later divorced in Nov. of 2003.

Ron joined the Northwoods Archers and became good friends with Paul Emmerich. They both joined the United Foundation for Disabled Archers, where they were very active. Paul was there for Ron through fun and not fun times, which Ron was very grateful for. Going above and beyond, Ron was never afraid to let anyone know of his love for the Chicago Cubs and da Bears.

Along with friends he wrote a cook book called, Nature’s Delicacies.

His cremation has been accorded and no service will be held.

Ron is survived his brother, Don Welker and his families and a daughter, Rhonnie Luynn of Illinois.