Ronald “Ron” Eugene Riddle, age 65, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, at home, surrounded by the love and presence of his family, after a brave and unwavering journey with cholangiocarcinoma.
Born October 29, 1959, in Madison, Wisconsin, Ron was the kind of man who made everyone feel like family. A loving husband, proud father, treasured friend, and the world’s greatest Papa - he was known for his open heart, quick wit, and stories that made you laugh, cry, or both at once.
He married his best friend, Patti, in 1990, and together they built a life full of devotion, laughter, and the kind of love that weathered every storm. He was a deeply proud father to Benjamin and Brina and a fiercely devoted grandfather to Mason and Lyla - his two greatest fishing buddies.
Ron spent over 45 years serving in veterinary clinics, where his work was more than a job - it was a calling rooted in kindness, patience, and service. He was the steady hand in every storm, a calm voice to animals and their owners alike. But his favorite place was always on the water. Whether casting a line at Crescent Lake, steering the boat with a kiddo on his lap, or skipping rocks with his grandkids, Ron found peace in the simple, quiet moments of life.
He was the king of dad jokes, the grill master, the shoulder to cry on, and the guy who would tell you “you’re doing great” even when life felt hard. He could fix anything - except maybe his tackle box - and never left a family gathering without saying “I love you.”
Ron is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia; his children, Benjamin (Elizabeth) Riddle and Brina (Zach) Riddle; his grandchildren, Mason and Lyla Riddle, who adored their Papa beyond words; his brother, Elmer (Robbie) Riddle; and lifelong friends, Randy (Anne) Yunk and Don (Robin) Stewart. He is reunited in peace with his parents, Clifford and Helen Riddle; and his siblings Lloyd, Deborah, and Gerald.
He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, loyalty, and lake days. In every fish caught, every campfire story, every “pull my finger” joke passed down - Ron will be there.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date, where there will undoubtedly be laughter through tears, just as he would have wanted. Cremation rites accorded. Arrangements by Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL.
“Don’t worry about me... I’ll be fishing in heaven.”