Ronald William Cheney

Ronald William Cheney, of Waukee IA, passed away on Monday, October 14, 2024 leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and love.

Born in Dixon, IL on March 7, 1940 to Fred and Helen Cheney, Ron spent his early years in Des Moines, where he attended Tech High School. After graduation, he began his career in the Orthotic and Prosthetic field then attending Northwestern University. His career took a defining turn when the company for which he worked would later become American Prosthetics and Orthotics (APO).

As President Ron guided American Prosthetics and Orthotics for over 50 years. Under his leadership, the company expanded becoming a leading provider in its field. His vision and dedication transformed APO into a cornerstone of the Iowa healthcare industry. Throughout his tenure, Ron mentored countless prosthetists and orthotists and served thousands of patients. His work with the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association earned him respect and admiration, as he was known for being fair, conscientious and deeply patient-centered. Renowned for his skill with his hands, Ron’s expertise was invaluable to his colleagues and the patients he served.

Ron was married to his first wife, Becky, with whom he raised their two sons, Rod and Brent. Later, Ron married Rikki, with whom he shared over 32 years of marriage. Together, they not only built a beautiful life but also worked as coworkers, leading APO through its most prosperous years before its eventual sale. Their partnership was marked by a shared commitment to excellence, service and a mutual respect with their family of employees.

Ron was a devoted father to his sons, Rod and Brent (Tina); brother to Gary (Cindy); a loving stepfather to Rikki’s children, Kim (Denny), Doug and Jenn (Peter). He was a proud grandfather to Cole (Cleo), Blake (Mara), Parker, Sidney, Alexa, Nick, Noah, Luke, and DJ; and a great-grandfather to Beau, Calvin, and Jude. Other family members include sister-in-law, Tammy Maaske; brother-in-law, Mike Simoni (Susan); sister-in-law, Trease Kuecker (Jeff); plus many loved nieces and nephews. His family was central to his life, and he made countless memories with them. Papa continued to share his time and love with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ron had a passion for golf, University of Iowa athletics and cherished his time in Scottsdale, Arizona; Steamboat Springs, Colorado; and fishing in Canada. His generosity, humility and loving spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.

Ron will be deeply missed by his colleagues, friends, and family. And remember, “YOU TELL THEM I SAID!”

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 21, 2024 at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Pkwy in West Des Moines with family receiving guests at 10:00 am. For those guests unable to attend the service in person, the service will be livestreamed click here.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be made in Ron’s name to On With Life, a rehabilitation facility dear to his heart.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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