McDonald, Ronald James

Ronald James McDonald, age 92 of Gratiot, WI passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at Vista West Care Facility in Madison, WI.  He was born on November 26, 1932 to John and Hazel McDonald of Gratiot. He married Sonja Jean Gille on December 9, 1957 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Gratiot.  Ron first met Sonja while she was working at the movie theater concession stand in Darlington.  

Ron grew up on the family farm in Gratiot where he helped his dad milk cows and drive the horse while planting and harvesting crops.  His love of animals came from his years on the farm.  "Ronnie" as his sisters called him, was the oldest of 5 children.  He and his 4 sisters enjoyed playing Rummy, Checkers, and walking to their Brannan country school together.   

In his earlier years, Ron had a milk route for Carnation Milk Company where he picked up milk from local farmers and hauled it to the milk plant in Gratiot. He then worked at John Deere in Dubuque, IA for 30 years. In retirement, he worked at Swiss Colony in Monroe, WI for several more years.   

Ron's most enjoyable hobby was playing cards with friends and family.  He loved to play Euchre and Poker the most.  Ron was a "card shark" who remained at the "top of his game" up until his passing.   

Ron is survived by his wife Sonja McDonald; three daughters Susan (Jim) Bendik Wolf, Cyndee Stiefel, and Sherry (Steve) Maina; three grandchildren Michelle (Drew) Glowacki, Collin Krmpotich, and Brady Krmpotich; and three great-grandchildren Clayton, Ellie, and Chase Glowacki.  Ron is also survived by his sister Mary Javor; his brother-in-law George Ring; and many nieces and nephews.        

Ron was preceded in death by his parents John and Hazel McDonald; sisters Shirley, Lucille, and Patty; brothers-in-law Jerry Bourquin, Ronnie Javor, and David Griffiths; nephews Michael Javor, Jon Bourquin, and Todd Griffiths; and great nephew Blake Ronald Griffiths.   

Services for Ron will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Darlington, WI on Friday, June 27th with a visitation beginning at 10:30 a.m., funeral service at 11:30 a.m., and a luncheon immediately following at the church.  Burial will take place at Union Grove Cemetery after the luncheon.   

Our family would like to give a special thank you to Vista West, and Agrace Hospice for their care of Ron.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to Agrace Hospice at the Agrace Foundation, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711. 

Ron will be remembered for his warm smile, kindness, and the way he connected with everyone through friendly conversation. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him!

Gorgen Funeral Home

www.gorgenfh.com