Ronald E. DeLong

Ronald E. DeLong, of Springfield, passed away on August 11, 2022, at 7:28 p.m. at the age of 87, surrounded by his loving family. He was born February 9, 1935, in Colebrook, New Hampshire the son of Willard and Irene DeLong. He was raised by Elwin and Laura DeLong in Petersburg, IL. On April 20, 1957, he married Shirley Lakin.

Ron graduated Tri-City High School in 1956 and proudly served his county in the U.S. Army. He retired from the Springfield Fire Department in 1994 after 26 years as a driver engineer. Ron was a former member of the Elks Lodge, Route 66 Cruiser Club, Studebaker Drivers Club, and Avanti Club. He was also a member of Laurel United Methodist Church.

Ron loved racing go-karts, restoring cars, and showing his Studebakers and Avanti, for which he received many trophies. He also enjoyed boating, riding his jet ski, and spending time with his family. Ron loved animals and had a heart of gold.

Ron was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years Shirley DeLong; his parents, Willard and Irene DeLong; foster parents, Elwin and Laura DeLong; step-mother, Otra DeLong; and a half-brother, Joe DeLong.

Ron is survived by his daughter, Julie Hermes (husband, Art) of New Berlin, IL; two grandchildren, Alex Hermes (Rachel Thomas) of Springfield, IL, and Madison Hermes of New Berlin, IL; one step-granddaughter, Rachel Hermes (husband, Efrain Costello) of Kansas City, MO; brother, Dr. Paul DeLong (wife, Myra), of Dubuque, IA; sister, Laquita Perry of Stoneham, MA; half-sister, Patricia Oxley of Jacksonville, IL; two half brothers, John DeLong (wife, Deb) of Jacksonville, IL, and David DeLong; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Thursday August 18, 2022, at Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, IL. A Funeral Ceremony will follow at 11:00 a.m. with the Revered Dr. Kent Lolling officiating.

Entombment will take place at Oak Ridge Mausoleum with military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to Laurel United Methodist Church, 631 South Grand Avenue West, Springfield, IL 62704, or the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd, Springfield, IL 62702.