Ronald “Ron” W. Anderson, age 86, of Wautoma, Wisconsin (previously of Elburn, Illinois), passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026.

Ron was born on March 1, 1939, in Cissna Park, Illinois, the son of Gilbert and Elsie (Bryant) Anderson. Ron is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Kathy (Keeley). He is also survived by his son, Seth (Kristen) Anderson of Wautoma, WI; one daughter, Lisa Damas (fiancé Duane Collins) of Casa Grande, AZ and one step-daughter Catie (Brett) Feltes of Sycamore, IL. He is further survived by seven grandchildren, Saige (Morgan) Anderson, Trevor (Kaylyn) Anderson, Brittany Anderson, Lindsey Anderson, Dalten Damas, Lorysa Damas and Samantha Damas, two step-grandchildren, Jackson and Jonah Feltes, and twelve great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Ron is preceded in death by his brothers, Lowell and Larry; one sister-in-law, Barb Anderson and one great-grandson, Emmit Damas.

Ron started his teaching career in Naperville, Illinois. The rest of Ron’s career in education was in Geneva, Illinois, where he was principal at Sixth Street School, Fourth Street School and Harrison Street School, from where he retired in 1994. Ron was also in charge of special education in the Geneva School District and in 1992 he received the Milken Education Award.

Ron’s wishes were to be remembered for his love of his wife, Kathy, his family, and his faithful cat, Gracie, as they were the most important things to him. Ron always looked forward to spending time with his brother, Lowell. Whether it was drinking coffee and reminiscing or playing a game of ping-pong. Ron loved to fish and enjoyed telling stories of his idyllic childhood and of the time spent at the family cabin in northern Wisconsin. He was also a huge history buff.

Ron never encountered a person who did not like him. He was kind and generous, in both his time and wisdom. Ron touched the lives of so many people, all of whom are better for having known him. He was definitely one of a kind and will be sadly missed by his family.

He’s ours and he’s special

We’re so thankful and glad

He’s our Peepaw, our Papa

Our Grandpa, our Dad

There will not be a formal funeral service, however a celebration of life with family and friends will be scheduled for a later time.