Ronald Schetnan

Ronald Schetnan, 80, of Fergus Falls, died Thursday, October 16 at Pioneer Cottage in Fergus Falls.

Ronald Dean Schetnan was born December 15, 1944, in Pierre, South Dakota, to Lewis and Florence Schetnan. Ron was the 3rd child in a family of 5 boys. He graduated from Brandon Valley High School in 1963 and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Augustana College in 1969. Ron's first days were in an incubator, and he overcame polio as a child to live a long and healthy life.

In his youth, Ron was an athlete, playing basketball and football often on the same team as his brothers Sylvin and Doug. Ron rode his horse several miles each day to and from his first job as a farmhand. He had great friends and cruised the streets of Sioux Falls. "That's so Cherry!"

On August 17, 1968, Ron married Jeanne Barber at St. John's Lutheran Church in Webster, SD. They honeymooned in a small camper in the Black Hills and were happily married for over 57 years. Ron and Jeanne lived in Sioux Falls, SD, Ivanhoe, MN and Fergus Falls, MN where they chose to put down roots and raise their family.

Ron was an active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church serving on the church council and in the choir for many years. He loved to sing and had a beautiful bass voice. Ron was a member of the Augustana Choir and the Fergus Falls Area Barbershop Chorus. His karaoke favorites included 16 Tons, Ring of Fire, and Elvira.

Ron was devoted to serving youth. His first professional job was as a 7th and 8th grade science teacher in Ivanhoe. Ron was passionate about coaching and volunteered with the Backcourt Club for many years. He built a basketball court at the Schetnan home for his boys and their friends to play at what became known as Ron Rock. Ron was an avid sports fan and attended the Minnesota State Basketball Tournament for countless years.

After teaching and spending his summers painting, Ron ventured into being a small business owner, then for many years he worked with the National Federation of Independent Business. In retirement, he loved driving the school bus and taking trips with Jeanne and friends.

Ron's paternal grandparents were deaf, and he honored them by serving in Sertoma. He received the "Sertoman of the Year Award" in 2008.

Ron lived for trips to Lake of the Woods with his boys, Mike Thacker, and his fishing buddies. There was cribbage, card games, walleye and a lot of BS. Ron was an animated storyteller and known for laughing at his own jokes. He was the best dance partner with a strong lead and always the first on the dance floor.

Ron relished family time at the cabin. He often told the story of how he found the spot on Wall Lake. He loved campfires, boat rides, playing bags, singing along to the music, and as a lefty he had a mean ping pong game. The memories will be forever cherished.

Papa Ron was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren. Over the years, friends and family looked forward to learning of the family happenings with Ron's entertaining Christmas letter. He was undeniably present and deeply loved.

Ron had a caring heart and a jovial laugh. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

Survivors include his wife Jeanne; daughter Carey, her husband Chad, and grandsons Joseph and William Sanders of Inver Grove Heights; son Judd, his wife Greta, and grandsons Noah and Lewis of Lakeville; son Jake, his wife Kelly, and grandchildren Madellen, Kasey, and Kegan of Golden Valley; brothers, David of Luverne, MN, Richard of Albuquerque, NM; and many in-laws, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Lewis, mother Florence, and his brothers Sylvin (Janet) and Douglas (Barb).

The family is grateful for the love and support of the staff at Pioneer Memory Care - Heartland.

Memorial Service: 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the church.

Clergy: Reverend Loren Mellum

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com