Ronald Irving

Ron was a natural leader whose winning presence allowed him to take control of various situations with ease. Equipped with a clear and calculating focus, he possessed a tough-minded, " take charge " attitude. He believed in "The Choice Theory," of Dr. William Glazier. He had the ability to make even routine situations seem exciting, and he was at ease with the role of playing problem solver.Socialable, analytical and pleasant , Ron was an individual who enjoyed life's challenges. He was a friend and mentor to many.

His parents were Kate and Harry Irving. He had one sibling Kenny, who was also a great friend. Ron was raised in Illinois. Always able to express himself well, Ron possessed strong interpersonal skills. He was optimistic in his outlook on life and was able at all times to be open and direct in his communication, Armed with a great wit, Ron was raised to be accepting of others and to implement a strong work ethic.Ron was blessed with a balanced attitude throughout life.

As a young child, Ron showed his creative ability in many ways. He was outgoing and loved to dance. Ron enjoyed new activities and pursued a variety of interests. He was a member of the Skulls, a neighborhood organization, since the age of 15.

Known to others as a focused, logical, open-mined and somewhat driven individual Ron utilized these traits to suceed in life. He was good with facts and had an excellent memory.Friends and acquaintances found Ron an easy man to get to know, and those close to him would often praise his open, practical style of communication and relaxed approach to life in general. Ron was uncomplicated and straightforward in his relationships, which allowed him to accept people for what they were. While growing up, some of his best friend were mostly members of the Skulls, and just too many to list. Later in life he became friends with Don Morrisey and his wife Mary.Ron and Don were both musicians that fomed a group called The Casuals.His best friend Bob Farano, ( cherished cousin to Theresa ), was instrumental in introducing Ron and Theresa.

On September 22, 1956 Ron exchanged wedding vows with Theresa at Visitation Church, Garfield Blvd, Chicago , Illinois. Ron was attentive to Theresa's feelings , and he charmed Theresa's and others with his gift for being able to give freely and generously. A good listener with an engaging personality, Ron was able to bring pleasure and unexpected humor to the relationship.

Ron enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. He had something of an artistic flair in many of the things he did. He put this creativity toward all of his pastimes. His favorite pursuits were playing guitar, restoring his 1963 T-Bird, and mastering the computer . He enjoyed sharing his his interests with others.

Throughout the years, Ron was an active member of the Skulls, SAC. Ron was also past President of The Chamber of Commerce, in Bridgeview Illinois.

Ron identified with the inquisitive and creative side of his children's personalities. He was able to direct his energy and wisdom towards helping his children acquire added common sense skills. Ron was blessed with three daughters, Jackie, Kathleen and Janet and three sons, Jimmy, Robby and the late David. He was also blessed with eleven grandchildren, Jeff, Dan, Jon, Reid, Tina, Amy, Ava, Kate, Joey, Kimmy and Kenny.

Ron was able to draw the best from others around him. A persuasive individual who was quick to make necessary decisions, Ron's strenghths included being able to think on his feet. He could be a leader who sought impact for his decisions. Ron was able to positively motivate others in order to get a task completed. He was a good negotiator who enjoyed new challenges. He could multi-task, and he was endowed with entrepreneurial spirit.

Ron enlisted in The US Navy at the age of 15. He achieved the rank of S2C.

His primary occupation was Masonry and General Contractor. He was the the owner of R Irving & Sons.He went on to open a motorcyle shop with his friend Don Morrisey called Summit Suzuki. After he retired he formed the company, Riving Productions, " Getting Ready to Ride." in which he sold vintage pictures (circa 1925) of a motorcycle club.

Ron was an enthusiastic Chicago Bears fan. He loved to watch the games and made an ethusiatic fan of his wife.

Travel and family vacations were experiences in Ron's life which he truly enjoyed. One of his favorite vacation destinations was Baraboo, Wisconsin where he spent many good times with family and friends. One of Rons last pleasures was to return and visit there with his family.

When Ron' retirement finnaly came in 1991, he was well prepared. He used logical analysis of his retirement opitoins in order to ensure his retirement would be fulfilling. Still, he was able to easily adapt to postive changes and just enjoyed having fun and being relaxed, His new life involved relocating to Holiday, Florida. In retirement, he found new pleasure in teaching himself computer skills , and he was the president of his Homeowner's Association, but after fourteen years he and Theresa decided to return to Illinois to be back with all their family and friends.

Ron passed away peacefully in his home on August 14, 2011. He is survived by his soulmate Theresa and children Jackie ( Emmett ), Jimmy ( Anna ), Kathleen, Janet ( Dave ), Robby ( Amy ), and the late , David. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jeff, Jon, Dan, Reid, Tina, Amy, Ava, Kate, Joey, Kimmy, and Kenny .

Ron was the kind of person who could win others over easily. A concrete communicator , he relied on his senses to increase his involement and awareness of others.He was always able to provide amusing repartee to his friends and acquaintances., offering a seemingly endless supply of anecdotes, proverbs and stories. He enjoyed his life and the exprience of living it. This is how everyone will remember Ron.