Ron Poertner, of Villa Ridge, passed peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, surrounded by family, with his beloved schnauzer Fozzie at his feet. He was 79.

He is preceded in death by his mother Clara (née Howell); stepfather, Hugo Poertner and father, William Schollmeyer.  He is survived by his loving wife Cynthia (née Bagley), his sons Daniel (Erin Haupt) and Timothy (Bridgett); Grandchildren Ethan, Albany, Emily and Riley and great grandchild Tyler.  He is also survived by brothers Steve (Marybeth) Dick, Daniel (Beverly) Owens and sister Judy (Don) Cashman.

Ron was born in St Louis Missouri Feb 9th 1947 and grew up in what is now the City of Wildwood, after graduating from Lafyette High School he served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam where he was stationed in Mannheim, Germany.   Following military service, he pursued a secondary education in the Tool and Die makers trade in which he worked for 40 years.  He was an active member and past-president of the Masons, the Scottish Rite and a Shriner where in the 80's and 90's he was a member of the Shrine motorcycle patrol participating in formal events and parades.

In his free time Ron was a constant tinkerer, happiest when working with cars, tractors and especially motorcycles.  He loved the outdoors and could regularly be found hunting, fishing or searching the woods for morel mushrooms.  Ronnie (as he is affectionately known by close family) was admired for his whit, charisma and always being willing to lend a helping hand (even if he didn't know you).  It has been repeated many times that Ron "doesn't know a stranger" due to his ability and desire to strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere.

Ron is deeply loved and profoundly missed by his many friends and family.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date.