Ronald Schwartz

Ronald “Ronnie” Robert Schwartz, age 61 of Montello passed away unexpectedly Thursday, March 23, 2023.  Ron was born in Portage the son of Duane “Dewey” and Mary Lou (Hinrichs) Schwartz.  He graduated from Montello High School in 1980 and furthered his education at UW-Oshkosh earning a degree in film.    The dream of making movies led him to California where he lived for many years. Ronnie did manage to work and accomplish so many interesting jobs in the industry but as time passed his passion waned for the bright lights and he felt Wisconsin calling him home.

When Ronnie eventually made his way back to Wisconsin he poured his life into the lives of his parents, brothers and nieces and nephews.  There wasn’t anything Ronnie wouldn’t do for any of us.  There are too many stories of Ronnie driving great distances to fill a need, to fix a car or just give support and never taking anything in return.

Ronnie loved to cook for people and eventually acquired a food truck so that he could take his great culinary skills out to the masses. It debuted in Wells, MN where Tim’s family lived and assisted Ronnie with this venture. The town immediately were gushing about his burgers but his breakfast burritos have become somewhat of a legend in this little community. The memories made there will last a lifetime for Tim’s family.

Ronnie also became the head chef for all Schwartz holiday gatherings.  The spread of food was always amazing and delicious, but his superior cooking was just a small part of these parties. The story telling, fun and laughter always took center stage with Ronnie leading the way.

But in the end Ronnie really became the truest friend one could ever wish for. He was always there, day or night, if you wanted or needed to talk. Because of some of his struggles he endured in his personal life he had great empathy for your struggle. We don’t remember an instance when he cut a conversation short because he had something else to do or he was too tired. Whatever it took he would try to get it done for you.  He was so amazing to all of us and he will be painfully missed.

Ronnie is survived by his mother, Mary Lou of Montello and three brothers:  Timothy (Rosemary) of Wells, MN, Carey (Keri) of Jackson and Randy (Hilary) of Dane.  He is also survived by 14 nieces and nephews: Tenley, Tikvah, Jonathan, Samuel, Olivia, Jeremiah, Benjamin, Gabrielle, Victoria, Cassandra, Corinne, Larissa, Austin and Jesse as well as other extended family members.

Ronnie is preceded in death by his father.

Ronnie will be laid to rest with private services at Oak Hill Cemetery, Town of Packwaukee.

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Montello and Oxford is honored to be serving the family.  www.CrawfordFH.com