Hospice Home.
He was born on November 14, 1932 in Chicago IL. In 1951, before the advent of the heart-lung
machine and before open heart surgery became a commonplace event, a surgeon at a
university research hospital in Chicago placed a hand inside Ron’s beating heart to repair a
congenital heart defect. That day helped ensure a long and fulfilling life for a boy who was sickly
and literally blue. And perhaps all of us with heart disease are today benefitting from his
involvement in this risky open heart surgery research at the young age of 19.
Six weeks later,“The Man of Steel” started working in sales at Ryerson Steel in Chicago. He
worked in the steel industry his entire career, retiring from O’Brien Steel in Peoria.
And just two months after his surgery, he became a dad for the first time. He was the proud
father of four daughters and nothing pleased him more than being surrounded by his girls. He
and Dee backed all their girls’ endeavors, attending piano recitals, baton competitions, swim
meets, band concerts and plays, coaching softball teams, and then carrying on that enthusiastic
involvement with their grandchildrens’ activities.
Ron was a rabid Chicago sports fan and was so thrilled to witness the 2016 World Series win of
his beloved Chicago Cubs. Next time you see a “W” flag waving, know that Ron would be
happy.
Surviving are his wife Ginger, daughters Renee Cabbage and Nancy Castillo (Lois Geshiwlm),
son-in-law Brian Dobias, granddaughters Emily Cabbage (Nick Rohle), Erin Dobias (Nick
Edmonds), grandsons Matt Dobias, Noah and Joe Kane, and 4 great-grandchildren. Also
surviving are step-children Barb Van Wyck and Steve Kelleher.
He suffered greatly the loss of his wife of 44 years, Dee, his eldest daughter Deb Dobias age
63, his youngest daughter Lisa Kane age 42, and his son-in-law Guy Cabbage at 42.
At Ron & Ginger’s request, there will be no visitation. If you wish to honor Ron with a donation,
please consider OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.
