Ronald Degner
Ronald Degner, age 88, of Franklin, MN passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at New Ulm Medical Center. Funeral Services will be on Thursday, May 25, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Franklin with Pastor Lowell Krogstad officiating. Burial will be in the Fort Ridgely Cemetery, Ridgely Township. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday. Arrangements are by Dirks-Blem Funeral Service of Olivia.
Ronald Roger Degner was born on May 5, 1935 to Frank and Luella (Nielsen) Degner in Lynn Township, McLeod County. He attended Hector High School and received his GED later to teach brick laying at the vocational school in Pipestone, MN. Ronald was united in marriage to Yvonne Ragan on November 12, 1955 at the Franklin Methodist Church and they were blessed with two children. Ronald loved his community and gave of his time and talents by serving as mayor of Franklin for 22 years, member of the ambulance for over 30 years, and member and past president of the Franklin Lions Club. He was involved with many committees and boards including the Renville County Historic Society, Renville County Museum, and served as secretary for the Mid-MN Developers and Brick Layer’s Union. Ronald owned and operated ‘Ronald Degner Masonry’, laying bricks from the time he was a junior in high school until he passed away. He donated his time making signs for area churches and schools, and helped with the brick work for many schools, hospitals, and homes throughout Minnesota and the surrounding states. Ronald passed on the tricks of the trade to his grandson, Thomas, who worked closely with him for 25 years. Although he lived with chronic pain from a car accident and years of hard work, he never complained or let it stop him from being busy. Ronald was a good man that was generous with his time and advice. He never told anyone no that came to him for help and was always willing to lend a listening ear to someone that wasn’t quite sure how to do something. His large garden fed many people as it was open to those that wanted fresh produce. Going to auctions and garage sales when he wasn’t working was how he liked to spend his time. He also enjoyed watching and feeding birds at his home. Ronald will be remembered for his strong work ethic, character, and willingness to help anyone in need.
Ronald is survived by his children: Roger Degner and Jill (and Tom) Ousky; grandson, Thomas Ousky; brother, Larry (and Nadine) Degner; brother-in-law, Dale (and Bonnie) Ragan; sister-in-law, Lynn Ragan; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Yvonne; and his siblings: Donald Degner, Marvin Degner, LaVerne Degner, LaVonne Andree, Dorothy Niemann, and Galen Degner.
Blessed Be His Memory
