Ronald "Ron" L. Anderson

“There are some who bring light so great to the world, that even after they are gone, the light remains.”

The world has lost one of the good guys. Ronald “Ron” L. Anderson, a gentleman, a charmer, and a big-hearted protector of his family, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, December 20, 2016, at NorthPointe Terrace; surrounded by family.

He was born on April 13, 1931, in Rockford, the son of Glenn and Mary Anderson. Ron married Beverly “Bev” Erickson, his high school sweetheart and “main squeeze”, in Rockford on December 15, 1950. Ron was smart, athletic, generous, witty, and loved his family deeply. To his kids, he was a role model and a friend, someone who always made sure his family was safe and secure. He taught them how to fish, water ski, golf, appreciate music, sing barbershop, and to just be thankful. He was charitable, a good storyteller, and an aficionado of golf! He never forgot the trip to Scotland that he took with his friends to play many of the famous courses there. Ron was also a life-long Chicago Bears fan, even during the years when they were unbearable to watch.

Ron was also a successful local businessman. Together, Ron and Bev owned and operated the Swig ‘N’ Sway Mini Putt and Root Beer Stand. Although this start-up business effort was interrupted when Ron enlisted in the Army, he never lost his passion for building a business and future for his family. After his discharge from the Army he became a journeyman electrician and along with Bert Ballard and Larry Branch built Ballard Electric Company, which is still a successful business today. Ron took great pride in taking care of the “people side” of the business, employing hundreds of people over the years. He took great pleasure in the achievements of others and was widely admired by many of the people who worked for him.

Survived by his sons, Ronald Jr. of Darien, WI and Randy of Tucson, AZ; his daughters, Lori (Mike) Bryant of Tucson, AZ and Lynn (Jay) Olexy of Westminster, MD; his grandchildren, Chase and Tanner Bryant and Hannah and Madelynn Olexy; many nieces, nephews, and special friends; his sisters-in-law, Betty Martenson, Betty Anderson, and Enid Anderson. Predeceased by his beautiful wife, Bev, his parents, his brothers, Jerry, Bob, and Dave; his sister Marge Snyder. Special thanks to Beloit Hospice Care, especially Julie and Karen for their tears, compassion, and extraordinary care; and to Kara and the staff at NorthPointe Terrace for taking such good care of Ron over the years. You are truly angels on earth.
Funeral services will be held at 1:30 P.M. Friday, January 20, 2017, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd, Rockford, with Reverend Dan Herman officiating. Burial in Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 12:30 P.M. until time of service at the funeral home on Friday. Memorials may be made to Beloit Regional Hospice, 655 Third St. Suite 200, Beloit WI, 53511. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.