Ronald Ziegler, age 79, of Appleton, WI formerly of Neillsville, WI died Sunday, October 7, 2018 in Appleton.

Ronald Lee Ziegler was born on July 23, 1939 in Neillsville WI the son of Marvin and Marion (Raine) Ziegler. He graduated from Neillsville High School and then worked at the Nelson Muffler Factory. Ron worked his way up the ladder at Nelson and eventually became the plant manager. He was united in marriage to Shirley R. Schultz on August 22, 1959 in Neillsville. Later, Ron and Shirley purchased the Montgomery Ward’s store in Neillsville, which they owned and operated for several years. After selling the store, they purchased a Rice Juice distributorship, which Ron operated until his heart transplant forced him to retire.

Ron was a member of the National Guard, and was called to active duty in the early 1960’s for the Berlin Crisis. He was on active duty in the state of Washington during the crisis.

He was a charter member and a current member of the Neillsville Lion’s Club. He was a member

of the Neillsville Men’s Club and the Wilson-Heintz VFW Post #2241 in Neillsville.

Ron loved baseball and especially enjoyed this Milwaukee Brewer season. He enjoyed playing softball and managing softball for the Wildcat Inn tournament team back in the day. He was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed family and friends gathering during hunting season.

He is survived by a daughter, Tracy (Brad) Ziegler-Harder of Appleton, WI, two grandchildren, Lars Harder of Appleton and Lizabeth Ziegler of Eau Claire, WI, four siblings, Wendell (Angie) Ziegler of Neillsville, WI, Sandy (Vinny) Shirley of Weyauwega, WI, Kim (Sharilyn) Ziegler of Willard, WI and Debbie (Bruce) Eskildson of Texas.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, a son, Mark and a daughter, Tammy.

A memorial service for Ron will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 20, 2018 at the Gesche Funeral Home in Neillsville. Pastor Douglas Bjerke will officiate. Interment will be in the Neillsville City Cemetery with military honors performed by the Neillsville Veteran’s Council. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, October 19^th and from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 20^th at the Gesche Funeral Home in Neillsville.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Ronald’s family with funeral arrangements.