Ronald F. Ludwig, 85, formerly of Marathon City and then Shawano, passed away Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Aspirus Hospice House.

He was born July 2, 1941, in Little Black, Wisconsin, son of the late William Ludwig and Elda (Reimer) Ludwig. On July 28, 1962, he married the love of his life, Kathleen "Kitty" Bartnik. Together they built a beautiful life and family, sharing many cherished years until Kitty's passing on April 30,1988. Later in life he found companionship with Bonnie Norton until her passing on May 31, 2024.

Ronald will be remembered with love for his faith, devotion to family, his gentle humor, and his appreciation for life's everyday moments. He was a longtime devoted member of Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Marathon and later at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano, where his faith guided him throughout his life. He found joy in the simple blessings of each day.

Ronald worked faithfully for many years as a meat manager, where his strong work ethic and friendly nature were appreciated by many. Outside of work, he enjoyed bowling, fishing, Yahtzee, cribbage, playing cards, and doing Sudoku puzzles. He found happiness in friendly competition and time spent with family and friends. He was a loyal Chicago Cubs fan and enjoyed cheering on the Green Bay Packers.

Above all, Ronald's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his children, Debbie (Joel) Werner, Judy (Jim) Loula, Connie (Robert) Furger, and Mark (Lorilyn) Ludwig, who will forever cherish his love, guidance, and steady presence in their lives.

He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Kyle (Mary Kathrine) Werner, Sydney Loula, Zachary (Tara) Furger, Kailey (Isaac) Barber, Logan Ludwig (Carmin Wipperfurth), John (Ashley) Phillips, Joe (Daryian) Phillips, Emily (Timothy) Bradow, and Molly (Marcus) Landon; and his great-grandchildren, Hollis, Livy, Adalyn, Owen, Olive, Leroy, and Millie, each of whom brought him great pride and joy.

Ronald is further survived by Bonnie's children, Debra Norton (Quint Stevens),Jeff (Tracy) Robbins, Joe (Tracy) LaFraniere, Scott(Lisa) LaFraniere, Jason (Molly) Norton, Wendy (Ryan)King, along with her grandchildren; Carissa Baeb(Kelly Galarneau), Andy Baeb, Paul (Michelle) Robbins, James Bowman, Ali (Shane) Langer, Eric Stevenson, Joseph(Katherine) LaFraniere, Genna LaFraniere, Emily LaFraniere, Brady Norton, Abram Norton, Elsie Norton and great grandchildren; Mason, Connor, Rodney, Skylar, Everett, Joseph III and Anya all of whom were part of his extended circle of life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, "Kitty", his second wife, Bonnie, his siblings Jerry, Terry, Loren, Carol Peissig, sister-in-law Clarice Ludwig, and grandson Thomas LaFraniere.

He was preceded in death by Kitty's siblings; Charles (Betty), Eugene (Krystal), and Marilyn (Neil) Luepke.

He is survived by his family; Gordon (Delores), Lance (Karen) and Greg (Betsy) and sisters-in-law Janice (Terry), and Karen (Loren) Ludwig.

He is also survived by Kitty's family; Lawrence (Joanne), Frederick (Lauranne), Arthur (Judy), Roger (Irene), and Richard (Teri) Bartnik.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, caregivers and hospice staff for the compassionate care, dignity and kindness they have shown Ron, and his family during this difficult time.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 pm on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Restlawn Memorial Park Mausoleum in Wausau, Wisconsin where family and friends will gather to celebrate Ron's life, share cherished memories, and commend him to God's eternal care. Entombment will take place at the mausoleum. Fr. Edward Looney will officiate. Visitation will take place from 12:00 pm until the time of services.

Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting the family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS

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