Ronald William Dirks

Ronald W. Dirks, 79

Our beloved husband and father, Ronald W. Dirks, 79, of Wausau, passed peacefully into his heavenly home while at North Central Health Care on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Ron was born on August 31, 1945, to Oscar and Leila (Richter) Dirks in Shawano, WI, Ron was the third of seven children. His family lived in various parts of Wisconsin before eventually settling in Marathon.

After graduating from Marathon High School in 1963, he enlisted and served in the U.S. Navy. Upon returning to Wisconsin, he attended North Central Technical College and worked at GTE.  In 1970, Ron’s career changed to the Rothschild Mill (American Can, Weyerhaeuser and finally Domtar), retiring at age 67.  During that time he became an industrial electrician through the State Apprenticeship program.

On September 13, 1969, Ron married the love of his life, Suzanne “Sue” Stubinski. They raised four children and opened their hearts and homes to foster children, foreign exchange students, and countless friends in need of a safe place to land.  They also enjoyed being “Bigs” for Louis Lee for 10 years.

Ron was a dedicated worker but more than that he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.  He had a gentle soul and a calm spirit. Some of the family’s fondest childhood memories included his Sunday waffles after church (Ron’s secret recipe), followed by family time watching “Doctor Who.”  Later he took up golfing and enjoyed playing rounds with family and friends, especially when it meant sharing a cart and laughs along the way.

Travel was a cherished part of his life with Sue and their family. While the children were young, they explored parts of the U.S. and Canada. In later years their adventures expanded to Europe where they visited family in Poland and Germany, and friends in England and France.

Ron enjoyed his four grandchildren and treasured the time spent with them. They were truly the light of his life. He also had a special bond with his dogs, enjoying long walks with them along the river near his home.

For 18 years, Ron and Sue were involved in the Alzheimer’s research program at UW Madison. Upon Ron’s death, per his wishes, he became a brain donor for that research program. Four years ago, Ron was diagnosed with the disease and, even through the challenges, he remained himself — smiling, laughing, and chuckling with a quick wit. Ron was able to remain in his home for nearly the entire journey, cared for with love by his wife and family.

Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Sue; his children, Matthew (Jen) Dirks, Michelle “Micki” (Crispin) Luebbe, Joshua Dirks and Kelin “Kelly” Dirks;  four grandchildren, Christian (Rachel) Dirks, Emelie Dirks, Spencer Luebbe and Adalyn “Adie” Dirks; and one great-grandson, Remington. He is further survived by his brothers, Ken (Jean) Dirks and Dan Dirks; his sisters, Justine (Bob) Stolze, Nancy (Mark) Loker and Annette (Pat) Krautkramer; and brother-in-law, Mark Blume. Also survived by sisters-in-law, Janice (Harry) Matis and Carrie (Ben) Zelazoski, and extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Hedwig and William Richter; parents, Oscar and Leila Dirks; his in-laws, Ben and Betty Stubinski; his sister, Diane Blume; his brothers-in-law, Benedict (Marsha) Stubinski and William “Buff” Kuehlman; and nephew, Jeremy Sonntag.

The family wishes to recognize and thank Woodson Art Museum for their “Spark!” program (he enjoyed it so much – but especially the carrot cupcakes); the ADRC for the “Memory Cafes;” and the Caregivers Support Programs.  They were a lifeline that helped us through these last few years.  Ron enjoyed time at the Adult Day Care at Homme Home where he made friends and enjoyed the activities.  We are grateful to his brother Dan for his assistance. And finally, thanks for the knowledgeable assistance of a kind staff at NCHC in his final weeks.

Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 6, 2025, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Wausau Campus “Salem,” at 2822 N. 6th St.  Pastor Jeff Mahnke will officiate. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. Entombment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Park where military honors will be performed by American Legion Post No. 10, Wausau.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com