"Diane, I'm so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful video tribute to his life. Sending thoughts and prayers to you and your family. I hope you find comfort in the many memories you have of him. . "
In loving memory of
Ronald D Gearhart
April 4, 1942 - January 24, 2022
Ronald D. Gearhart, age 79 of Colfax, passed away on Monday, January 24, 2022, at his home. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at 11:00 am at the Howard Street Christian Church in Colfax. The family will greet friends following the service at a luncheon at the church. Burial will take place at McKeever Cemetery on Saturday, May 14, 2022 t 11:00 am. In typical Ronnie fashion always thinking of others first and didn't want anyone standing out in the cold. Memorials may be directed to the Colfax Fire Association, Emerson Hough Izaak Walton League, or Every Step Hospice and condolences may be left for the family at www.coburnfuneralhomes.com
The son of Dale and Kathryn (Snook) Gearhart, Ronnie was born on April 4, 1942, in Newton. He graduated from Colfax High School. On September 29, 1961, he was united in marriage to Mary (Van Maanen) at the Pleasant Hill Church of Christ. Ronnie worked for many years for the City of Colfax, retiring in 2005. He recently was recognized for 50 years on the Colfax Fire Department. He started in 1972 and he served as chief from 1977 until April 2005. Ronnie was a charter member of the Poweshiek Pals 4H Club, Jaycees, a scout leader #345, the Booster Club, the Mid Iowa Antique Power Association, Livingston County Steam and Gas Association, the American Truck Historical Society and the Izaak Walton League. After retirement Ronnie spent his days attending Bluegrass festivals, tractor rides, antique truck/tractor shows, camping and enjoying time with family, and his "work days" (except Thursday, which were always reserved for the Ikes) at the Bisom shop welding and fabricating various projects. Ronnie also enjoyed going fishing in Canada every year since 1973.
Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mary; two children, Patti (Mike) Udelhoven and Diane Day; two grandchildren, Spencer (Keshia) Udelhoven and Hunter (Allison) Udelhoven; two great grandchildren, Kent and Kaden; two sisters, Sharon (Loren) Zachary and Rose Ann (Larry) Rowley and many friends. Preceding him in death were his parents and a stillborn son, Brian Dale Gearhart.
Tributes
"My condolences to the family of Ron. I remember him at school as serious. Cynthia A Sapp"
"Our prayers and sympathies are extended to the family and friends of Ronald Gearhart."
"I was so sorry to hear about Ron?s passing. If there were more men like Ron in the world it would be a much better place! I was fortunate to get to know Ron and Mary when I came back to Colfax to help take care of my Mother in the mid 90?s?they lived across the street from my parents. I knew Ron as the ?big brother? to Sharon and Rose Ann but got to know him better while I was home with my folks during that time. What an amazing couple-so kind and friendly?and fun!! When I would run into him he would always inquire about Mom and always offer to help us in any way that he could. They have always been incredible neighbors to my friend,Hazel Van Ekeren, who lived next door to them. Colfax lost an amazing citizen and our neighborhood lost an incredible man. My condolences to his wonderful family at this sad time. Heaven just gained a very special man. "
"I don't think I've met another man like Ron. What ever he did he was all in. The fire dept. will not be the same without him. Many of the innovations at the dept. are result of Ron, a few he built from scratch. He always seemed to have a vision of how to make things better, and an idea on how to accomplish it."
"Marianne and me are so sorry for your loss. He was a special guy. He was deeply involved with the community and helping others. It was always a joy to chat with him. "
"What a great friend never be another one like him will be sadly missed!! Love you buddy!! The Prater Family Alan Prater"
"Thank you a Ronnie for all the wonderful memories at the festivals. I will cherish them always. "