Ronald German
July 30, 1946 — March 11, 2024
A unique and special light in the world was forever dimmed Monday, March 11, 2024, when Ronald Lee German passed away at his home in Norwalk, Iowa. Though gone from here, Ron’s light will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those touched by his humor, kindness, generosity, and passion for life.
Ron was born on July 30, 1946, in Des Moines, Iowa to Marjorie and Dale German. He was a graduate of North High School and was on the football, baseball, and wrestling teams. Ron forged lifelong friendships there and loved getting together through the years. He played a leading role in planning reunions and supporting the Polar Bear Scholarship Fund.
Ron graduated from Drake University with a BA in Business in 1970. While he enjoyed his work at the Des Moines United Way and in other accounting positions, his career was always secondary to his love of family and friends. Times spent with them were his cherished memories. With a constant determination to live fully, Ron never let his numerous health challenges deter him. He entertained many with his famous “Wolfman Jack” impersonation and loved being a DJ at many parties and weddings. Countless people have danced to a tune spun by Ron. His passion for sports included playing and managing fast pitch softball, bowling, and golfing whenever time and his health permitted. Oh and of course he was a forever fan of the Chicago Bears and the LA Dodgers!
All this kept him busy, but Ron’s connection to people is what made him happy. He valued his friends and shared their joys and sorrows as though they were his own. His Santa deliveries to friends and Christmas gifts to family uniquely wrapped and accompanied by his original poems are wonderful memories.
Ron was an incredibly loving, generous, and fun brother to Jim German, Nancy German (Margarete), Marla Nelson (Bruce,) and Cindy Eilrich. His nieces and nephews, Michelle Hosteter, Andrea Klopfenstein, Kimberly Zimtbaum, Eric Nelson, David Eilrich, Nicole DiSchino, and Janelle Murray were all special to him. They fondly called him “Uncle Buck” acknowledging his generosity, and fun and loving spirit. There are truly no words to adequately describe Ron’s passion for living, the treasure of his presence in our lives, or the sorrow of his passing.
Knowing there is much more to say about Ron, and many stories to share, his family invites you to join us in celebrating his life on April 6th at the Crossroads Church, 2601 Border St. Norwalk, IA. Visitation will start at 1:00 and the service at 2:00. Following the service there will be a reception at the Echo Valley Country club 3150 Echo Valley DR. Norwalk, IA.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to The Polar Bear Scholarship Fund, 501 Holcomb Ave. Des Moines, IA. 50313
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Connie Leaders- Jetter
04/05/2024
Many memories...much laughter..Ron will be missed!
Marty Talarico
04/03/2024
Bustout. I am so Happy to call RG my Brother. He made me a North High Alum. This July will be tough and every July after but the truth is he made me understand how to have Fun. And Fun we all had being around him. So when you smile and laugh for no reason at all. Think of Ron.
Tammy McGee
03/28/2024
I was heartbroken when I heard the news. I always loved running into Ronnie and getting a big bear hug from him. He was always cheerful and welcoming. What a loss. My condolences to his family, friends, and especially his high school alums. Unfortunately, I will be out of town and unable to attend the celebration. I'm sure it will be full of many wonderful stories.
John & Jean Matovina
03/23/2024
Jean and I regret that we will not be able to attend the celebration of life and reception on April 6. We have many fond memories of Ron that we would enjoy sharing. Our condolences to his family and friends. John Matovina
Donna (Stout) Parker
03/22/2024
I was shocked and very saddened to hear of Ronnies passing. He was a wonderful person, a friend to all and one of a kind. He will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to have known him. Rest in peace my Dear Friend!
Donna
Steven Roush
03/22/2024
Ron was Mr. North High School. He was the glue who kept us all together. Never has there been an individual who was so giving/caring then Ron.
I was your wing man for years. Will miss our many laughs over dinner and drinks with the 4 amigos (Ray Smith, Ron Carlson, Roush and the Wolfman)
Keep Maria safe in Heaven and remember we all will be seeing each other again soon
Steve
Linda Johnson
03/22/2024
Sorry to read this. He was such a fun guy.
Denny Dennis
03/21/2024
Ronnie and I were born 4 months apart in 1946, and our parents and Billy McElrees parents were best of friends and together all the time. So Ronnie and I and Billy have been friends literally all our lives. I knew Ronnie and his family well. He was the best friend a guy could have and his family was the best. Goodbye old friend - love you forever. Denny.
Leota M. Lipovac (Teale)
03/20/2024
No doubt your grief at Ron's loss remains sharp at this point in time. Hopefully the sharpness of your grief will ease over time as you recount and recall the special memories you collectively and individually share of the part he played in your lives.
Hugs,
Leota
Linda (McAvoy) Salyers
03/20/2024
Ron touched so many lives in the best way. I'm grateful I got the chance to know him as a friend. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.