Ronald William Sieling, Sr, a beloved and dedicated member of our community, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025 at the age of 81.
Ron was a man whose life was marked by service, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of those around him.
Visitation will be on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 1-5 pm at Clancy Gernon Funeral Home in Bourbonnais. A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, March 3, at 10 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bradley, graveside memorial to follow.
Born to Lucille and Julius Sieling, Ron’s early years were shaped by love and strength. Tragically, he lost his father at the age of 2, and he was lovingly raised by Myron Drazy, who became a father figure to him and provided support and care throughout his life.
A devoted husband to his wife, Mary Jane Rankin, whom he married on August 2, 1969 in Kankakee. Ron was a true pillar of strength and love in his family. Through their 55 years of marriage they built a life filled with warmth, respect, and unwavering devotion. Their bond was one that inspired all who knew them.
Ron was the proud father of four children—Robin (Eric), Tammy (Armando), Ronald “Duffy”, Jr.(Julie), and Misty (Tom) —whom he loved dearly and who will forever carry on his legacy of kindness, service, and love. His devotion extended to his 14 grandchildren—Marko (Robin), Meghan (Andrew), Emily (Aric), Allie (Tyler), Jacob (Katie), Jeremy (Samantha), Jordan (Beau), Justin (Kirsten), Madalynn (Dylan), Abigail (Colin), Dominic (Amanda), Anthony, McKayla (Frankie), and Ben—and 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immeasurable joy and were a source of pride in his life.
Ron is also survived by his sister, Tara Atutis, with whom he shared a special bond throughout his life. Among his many connections, his relationship with Carol Beyer stood out; their banter and friendship brought joy and love to his days.
Professionally, Ron worked as a sales manager at Schwan’s Ice Cream for decades, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and customers. In addition, he worked at Meineke Car Care Center for years, contributing to the company’s success with his dedication and hard work.
His contributions to the community were numerous and far-reaching. He held multiple positions within the Bradley Lions Club including serving as Chapter President three times during his 22 years of service, where his leadership and dedication helped bring meaningful change to local projects and initiatives. His passion for service extended to his role as a president of the St. Joe’s Holy Name Society, where his faith and commitment to his fellow parishioners were deeply appreciated.
In addition, Ron made a lasting impact as the vice president of the Kankakee County Housing Authority. His work was a testament to his desire to create a better, more inclusive community for all.
Ron’s generosity, integrity, and warm spirit touched the lives of many, and he will be remembered as a man who always put others first. His legacy of service, devotion to family, and commitment to community will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
He will be reunited in Heaven with his parents.
The family requests that donations be made to establish a scholarship in his name to support the next generation of Lions Club members, the high school Leo chapter.
May he rest in paradise.
https://www.clancygernon.com/obituaries/Ronald-Sieling/#!/Obituary