Ronald L. Tetzloff, 68 of Auburn, went to be with his Heavenly Father after a long fight with lung cancer on Wednesday, October 25, 2023 surrounded by his loved ones in the comfort of his own home.
He was born on March 12, 1955 in Bismarck, North Dakota to Ruben and Viola (Johs) Tetzloff. He was a graduate of Mandan High School in Mandan, North Dakota, later earning his Associate’s Degree from Indiana Tech in Fort Wayne.
Ron honorably served his country in the United States Army for several years.
He married Laurie (Clark) VanWye on October 14, 2000 in Auburn. She resides in Auburn.
Before moving to Indiana, Ron served as a volunteer firefighter while living in North Dakota. Locally, he worked at both Alcoa in Auburn and Heidtman Steel in Butler for several years, retiring in 2017. He became an Eagle Scout in 1973. Ron was a member of the Auburn American Legion and he was an Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor, helping many people along the way. Ron was also a very active member of Christ’s Church in Butler, serving as a youth group assistant where they referred to him as Captain Ron, the Top Banana and Ronnie T. He also volunteered his time at the church’s store. He was an avid camper and he loved being out in nature. He loved history and he especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
Survivors include:
His wife of 23 years; Laurie Tetzloff of Auburn.
Daughter; Meachelle Tetzloff of Minot, North Dakota.
Daughter; Lachelle Tetzloff of Butler, Indiana.
Daughter; Katie VanWye of Huntsville, Alabama.
Son; Alex VanWye of Cleveland, Ohio.
Daughter; Maddie and Shawn Somerlott of Angola, Indiana.
Six grandchildren; Haven, Traven, Zaven, Teagen, Tucker and Harper.
Sister and brother-in-law; Melinda and Kevin Kiemele of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Brother; Randy Tetzloff of Boise, Idaho.
Brother; Robert Tetzloff of Bismarck, North Dakota.
Mother-in-law and father-in-law; Janet and Dave Heimann of Decatur, Indiana.
Sister-in-law; Suzy Buchs of Angola.
Many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A gathering of friends and family will be held on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Feller and Clark Funeral Home, 1860 South Center Street in Auburn.
A memorial service will be held immediately following the gathering at 3:00 PM at the Feller and Clark Funeral Home in Auburn with Joe Heins and Dale Rabineau officiating.
Burial will take place at a later date at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Mandan, North Dakota.
Memorial donations may be given to the Tetzloff Family.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.fellerandclark.com and on our Facebook page at Feller and Clark Funeral Homes.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Feller and Clark Funeral Home in Auburn.