ns. Ron was a creator and builder, using his creative, artistic and constructive skills to build a model of the Union Pacific railroad. He delighted in showing it to others, especially children who were thrilled to see pictures of themselves riding in his Amtrak passenger cars. Ron and Sharon spent wonderful years biking and traveling, especially to see their children/grandchildren and following the Union Pacific railroad tracks. A hard working and loving family man - Ron modeled the role of a loving husband, father and grandfather for his sons in quiet ways. When visiting his family, Ron always traveled with his "tool bag" to do whatever chores were on their Popi fix-it list. Ron was a member of the South Central Wisconsin Division Model Railroad Club and the Union Pacific and Northwestern Railroad Historical Societies. He became an avid Badger fan and for several years served as the football office host on game days. Ron is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sharon; his sons Thomas (Jennifer), Phoenix AZ and Michael (Darla), Naples FL; grandchildren, Lauren, Elise, Andrew, Britney and Ty; members of his McKinley family: John and Carol McKinley, Dennis and Margaret McKinley, Gary and Joanne McKinley and their families; and special friends Rose and Bill Weber. He will also be missed by his many model railroad friends. He was proceeded in death by his parents and a special aunt, Anne Betlach. Ron was a faithful, lifelong member of the Catholic Church. A Memorial Mass will be held at ST. MARIA GORETTI CATHOLIC CHURCH, 5313 Flad Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m., on Friday, Oct. 12, 2018. Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Friday. The family requests memorial donations be made to the UW Carbone Cancer Center, Agrace Hospice or a veteran's charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson Fitchburg Funeral & Cremation Care 2950 Chapel Valley Rd. (608) 442-5002 To read the full obituary, please click here: http://www.gundersonfh.com/obituaries/Ronald-Thomas-Betlach?obId=3257403#/celebrationWall