Ronald Thomas Neukirch, 83 of Niles, IL, beloved husband to Patricia Ann Wiese Neukirch, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2023.

Ron was born in Chicago, IL on March 16th, 1940, to Edward and Tusnelda Neukirch. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Patricia Ann Neukirch, daughter, Dawn Margaret Jeffers (Jerry) Evans, GA, son, Scot Ronald Neukirch (Ghida) Arlington Heights, IL. A loving Papa to, Hunter Jeffers, Marietta, GA, Grace Mura (Joshua), Duluth, GA, Walker Jeffers, Evans, GA, Jaclyn Neukirch, Arlington Heights, IL, and Zachary Neukirch, Arlington Heights, IL. Ron is preceded in death by his father and mother, Edward and Tusnelda Neukirch, brother, Edward (Violet) Neukirch, sister, Christel (Joseph) Tobsing, sister, Hildegard (Dominic) Sarni, and brother, Gerhardt (Elaine) Neukirch.

After graduating from McHenry High School, Ron started to work for Montgomery/Kone Elevator Company. He loved his 47-year career in the elevator business.  He enjoyed mentoring new mechanics and often met interesting people on the job, including Ronald Reagan.

Ron was a dedicated member of Niles Community Church for over 50 years. After retiring in 2006, Ron became an active volunteer with the Niles Police Department and was awarded the Citizen of the Year honor. He loved bowling and served as an officer in many of his leagues.

He loved feeding the birds in his backyard, fishing with family and friends, and traveling with Patricia, especially to Bora Bora (a city on his bucket list). A bowling buddy said, "Ronnie was 40 grit sandpaper on the outside and a marshmallow inside."  A colleague remarked, "If you were part of his inner circle, you had an eternal friend and a loyal advocate".

Ron worked with Patricia to create a beautiful legacy for what it means to be a devoted couple who loved one another.  They promoted a stable family atmosphere and supported their children and grandchildren with their words and actions.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life service that will be held at Park Ridge Presbyterian Church, 1300 W. Crescent Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068 on Saturday October 28, 2023, at 12:00 pm.

All are invited to attend a luncheon after the service in the fellowship hall of the church.