Ronald Kees, of rural Red Lake Falls, MN passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
A memorial mass will be held on Friday, January 10, 2020 at 2:00 PM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Red Lake Falls, MN with Father Bob Schreiner Officiating. Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery at Red Lake Falls, MN. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service on Friday at the church.
Ronald (Ronnie) Henry Kees was born May 30, 1943, or how he liked to say it, “the 5th month, the 30th day of 43” to Lawrence and Philomena (Hoefer) Kees.
The oldest of seven children, Ronnie was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Red Lake Falls, MN. He attended and graduated from Lafayette High School in 1961. He married Emma Gervais on October 9, 1965. The couple originally made their home within the city of Red Lake Falls eventually moving to Ronnie’s cherished farm in 1972. Ronnie worked at Red Lake Electric for 40 years, first as a lineman, then in the appliance department, and later in Member Services. Ronnie’s true passion was farming, but he transitioned from that to devote his time to watching his children grow.
Ronnie retired from Red Lake Electric in 2000 and thoroughly enjoyed his retirement years. Ronnie’s family and friends were very important to him. He faithfully attended sporting and school events of his children and grandchildren. He loved to hunt, fish, play cards, work in his garden, and spend time on projects in his shop, building many keepsakes for family and friends.
Ronnie and Emma spent many memorable years with family and friends, both old and new, at Rocky Point on Lake of The Woods. He enjoyed life which was evident in his mischievous smile. He enjoyed Saturday and Sunday family “Happy Hour” on the deck. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
Ronnie is survived by his wife Emma; son Daniel (Denelle) Kees of Red Lake Falls, MN; daughters Jackie Kees of Red Lake Falls, MN; Brenda (Tim) Froeber of Crookston, MN; and Sara (Lon) Pederson of Red Lake Falls, MN. His seven favorite grandchildren; Ashley (Paul) Miller and Eric (Aubree) Kees; Christopher Peterson; Amber and Lucas Froeber; and Rhylee and Kennedy Pederson, and two great-grandchildren; Brody and Noah Miller. Siblings Carol (Delbert) Audette, Red Lake Falls, MN; Phyllis (Jim) Rutledge, Monroe, WI; Diane (Leon) Schmitz, Park River, ND; Doug (Carol) Kees, Juda, WI; and Sandra (Greg) Knott, Red Lake Falls, MN, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his youngest brother Kevin Kees.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following organizations per Ronnie’s request: Hospice of the Red River Valley, Altru Cancer Foundation, Trails for Treatment or Red Lake Falls Ambulance.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
