Ronald C. Lahnala Sr.

Ronald C. Lahnala Sr., Marathon, Wisconsin, passed away at Aspirus Wausau Hospital on Sunday, July 23, 2023, with his children by his side.  Ron was 85 years old and lived a long, exciting life.

Ron was the son of Carl Matthew Lahnala and Martha Syrilla (Ristila) Lahnala of Ironwood, Michigan.  He grew up in Ironwood and was an only child.  He married Evelyn Marie Wertanen of Wakefield, Michigan, on June 1, 1963, in Wakefield.  They resided in Mason, Wisconsin for many years, after which Ron took a job in Webeno, where they resided in Lakewood, Wisconsin.  After the passing of his wife, he moved to Marathon, to be closer to his children.  Ron has three children, seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.  He is survived by his daughter, Wendy M. Galligan (Tim); grandchildren, Erik, Alayna, and Allysa; great-grandchild, Harlen Edward; son, Ronald C. Lahnala (Laura); grandchildren, Taylor, Allyson, and Carissa; great-grandchildren, Adley Jean and Macy Mae; daughter, Erika R. Lahnala (Scott); and grandchild, Keenan.  Ron was preceded in death in death by his wife and parents.

Ron graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Superior in 1962 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and went on to earn his master’s degree in administration.  Ron had a long career working in public schools.  He worked at Ondossagon Public Schools, in northern Wisconsin, near Ashland for 24 years as a math and science teacher, and principal.  In 1988 he took a job as school superintendent of the Wabeno Public Schools.  He retired at the age of 57 after 32 years of being in public education.  After retiring, he served as an interim superintendent of schools at four different districts that were in the process of choosing a new superintendent including Pulaski, Marinette, Crivitz, and Suring WI.

His hobbies included shooting pool and travelling the world.  He travelled to many countries including Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Brazil, Guatemala, Cuba, Mexico, Canada, and many others.  He usually was able to find a pool game in these countries and was always proud to say he shot pool all around the world.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 4, 2023, beginning at 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 300 Walnut Street in Marathon.  The celebration of life at the funeral home will be a meet and greet with no formal service (casual attire).  The celebration of life will continue at Arrow Tap in Marathon beginning at 5:30 p.m.  There will be food, drinks, and maybe a bit of pool shooting to celebrate his life.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.