Ronald I. Held

79, of Westfield, Indiana departed this life at his home on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Ron was born July 18, 1947 in Streator, Illinois to the late Ivan John & Myrtle Emma (Funk) Held. He grew up on the family farm in Ransom, Illinois where he learned responsibility and a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. He was a graduate of Streator Township High School and then earned his undergrad at Northern Illinois University. He then entered into the United States Army. Upon his discharge, Ron then returned to NIU to earn his Master’s Degree in Education.

Ron briefly taught in a public school and then began a 35 year career as an accountant with Anthem/Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

Ron was a kind and gentle soul who always put the needs of others first. He was a longtime and dedicated member of Venture Christian Church and a regular volunteer for Meals on Wheels, Special Olympics and The Palladium for the Performing Arts. He was an avid supporter of Compassion International.

Ron kept his mind and body healthy and strong through his love of cycling, playing pickleball (before it was cool), never passing on an opportunity to play a board or card game with family and friends, and was a familiar face at The Monon Center and YMCA. To rest, he rarely missed an episode of Judge Judy.

Ron was preceded in death by his loving wife, Brenda Marie (Perkins) Held; dear sisters-in-law, Lucette Held & Beth Perkins and brother-in-law, Bill Daum.

He is survived by his grateful children, Melissa K. Held & Bryan David (Alyssa Stewart) Held; beloved brothers, Bob Held & Gary (Joanne) Held; dear sister-in-law, Natalie Daum and brother-in-law, David Perkins; several cherished nieces & nephews, Steve, Greg, Patrice, Chris, Kim, Lauren, Stacy, Andy, Emily, Josh, Andrew & Zach and beloved great nieces & nephews and his favorite lap companion, Archie the cat.

Visitation for Ron will be from 4-7 PM on Friday, August 21st at Leppert Mortuary-Carmel Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 22nd at the mortuary with interment to follow at Carmel Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested in Ron’s name to Glioblastoma Foundation.

Online condolences available at www.leppertmortuary.com