Ronald Wenzel

Ronald George Wenzel, born April 19, 1944, in Winona, Minnesota, to George and Mary Wenzel, passed away on February 12, 2026, at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, Wisconsin, surrounded by his family. Ron grew up with a strong work ethic, a love of adventure, and a deep devotion to the people he loved. He met the love of his life, Karrol, in 1962 at Bunke’s APCO station, and the two were married on April 24, 1965. Together they built a life filled with laughter, traditions, and unwavering commitment. They raised two sons, Chad and Jason, who were the pride of Ron’s life. Ron was preceded in death by his son Chad in 2023, a loss he carried with quiet strength and deep love.

Ron proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Atka, an experience that shaped his discipline, resilience, and sense of responsibility. He often spoke of the friendships formed at sea and the unforgettable moments — including the penguins in Antarctica who mistook a football for an egg. His service remained one of his lifelong sources of pride.

After returning home, Ron began a career in electronics that would eventually lead him to become the founder and part‑owner of Riverside Electronics. He helped build the company from the ground up, earning a reputation as a problem‑solver, mentor, and leader who believed every person was an essential link in the chain. Riverside was more than a workplace to him — it was a family he helped create, and he cherished the people who built it alongside him.

Ron was a devoted grandfather to Cody, Nick, Zach, Mikey, Paige, Cameron, Whisper, and Tanker. He loved everything about being “Grandpa,” from telling stories to sharing jokes to cheering on every milestone. His grandchildren knew they were loved without condition — spoiled in the best way, taught to respect others, and always encouraged to help clean up the messes they made.

Ron enjoyed classic cars, boats, Disney collectibles, Chinese food, and the occasional casino trip, but his greatest joy came from time spent with family. He cherished Wednesday night dinners, Christmas light drives with a Suburban full of kids, camping trips, and the many adventures he and Karrol created over the years. He had a playful spirit — the kind of man who could turn a blown tire into a comedy routine, restore a Studebaker for a 3 a.m. birthday surprise, or make a whole room laugh with a single comment. His home was always open, a place where friends, family, and anyone in need could find support, humor, and a warm meal.

After losing Karrol in 2017, Ron carried her spirit forward with love and loyalty. While the long‑standing Wednesday dinners naturally came to an end, he continued hosting family gatherings, keeping traditions alive, and making sure the people he loved stayed connected. He honored her memory in the way he showed up for his family — with generosity, humor, and a steady presence they could always count on. Ron is now reunited with his beloved wife and his son Chad, leaving behind a family strengthened by his example of resilience, generosity, and love.

Ron will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His life made a difference, and his legacy will live on in the stories, traditions, and memories he created.

Ron is survived by his son, Jason; grandchildren, Cody, Nick (Elena), Zach (Michaela), Mikey, Paige (Gavin), Cameron, Whisper (Ethan), and Tanker; great‑granddaughter, Haven; and cousins Tony Voelker, Jerry Styba, and Jerry Troke.

Ron is preceded in death by his wife, Karrol; his son, Chad; and his parents.

A memorial service will be held Friday, February 20, 2026 at 1:00pm at Hoff Celebration of Life Center in Winona with visitation one hour prior to the service.