Ronald V. Lazarescu, Jr., age 65 passed away on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at home with family by his side after bravely laughing in the face of Alzheimer's for almost six years.  He was born on May 13, 1958 in Kenosha, WI the son of Ronald and Nancy (Scuffham) Lazarescu, Sr.  The second-oldest child of seven, his parents raised him to be self-sufficient and a leader in the family.  Steel can't compare to the emotional and physical strength Ron gave his parents and siblings; to call him their rock would be a disservice.  Whether it was building walls of a house, carrying his niece into a family party, sitting in hospitals holding trembling hands and telling jokes, or sharing a beer over endless nights of poker…Ron was the center every person gravitated towards.

Ron served in the United States Navy from 1976 to 1980 including service aboard the USS Inchon where he met his lifelong ship brothers.  He explored the world aboard ships that most see only in movies.  The pride he felt for his country, the communications work he mastered, and the lessons he learned while adventuring with his Inchon crew shaped him into a man who knew what he wanted in life.

Ron was discovered by his soulmate, mother of his children, walking partner, and the person he would love with every freckle and cell of his body, in an insurance office.  Lori Boles knew the blonde skinny man, with a smile that scrunched his nose and made his eyes shine like sapphires, would be her life partner.  On July 14, 1984 they were united in marriage in Adams-Friendship, WI.  Thirty-nine years of kisses, dishwashing towel fights, late nights at the camper throwing bags, and raising three children weren't enough for either of them. Their imperfectly beautiful love and dedication to their life together is one for novels.

Ron was an Assistant Bureau Director for the State of Wisconsin Department of Administration until his retirement, but his favorite job titles were Dad and Grandpa.  He took pride in teaching his kids the firsts in life, from tying a fishing knot, changing the car oil, cooking the best egg sandwiches or homemade pizzas, and the joy of laughing.  He was on every athletic sideline coaching or cheering on his kids and grandkids, full of pride at their falls and accomplishments equally.  He took all three of his children hunting, fishing, and boating; the small moments in nature with them was when he was most himself. The lessons he shared will be passed to his grandkids through stories of his heroics and admiration he earned through acts of selflessness.

Ironman has nothing on Ron Lazarescu; Marvel wishes they could have even half of his charm and bravery. Ron's body is no longer with us, but his hand-slapping booming voice echoes in the hearts of his countless friends; Glen Clickner made his life rich with breakfast mornings and bar nights that Ron cherished.  This is not the end for Ron…like the hundreds of softball home runs he hit over the fence, his spirit is flying high into the clouds: "We'll look for you in the stars, Dad."

Ronald is survived by his wife Lori, children Chais (Lauren) Lazarescu, Anna (Brent) Helwig, and Sara (Billy) Boutelle, grandchildren Cayson, Gunnar, Tucker, Joey, Cooper, and a baby Boutelle on the way, and canine companion Gracie. He is further survived by his father Ronald Lazarescu, Sr., siblings Cindy (Duane) Brownell, Terry Vanderhoof, Lori (Terry) Craig, Lynette (Dave) Koch, Tracy (Bobby) Koch, and John (Krista) Lazarescu, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother Nancy and father-in-law and mother-in law Clyde and Blanche Boles.

Ron's family want to extend a tearful thank you to Agrace, the Stoughton Hospital Geriatric Psychiatry staff, Dr. Jillian Landeck, and nurse Caroline: "You made Ron your family and cared for him and us with passion and kindness.  We love you all."

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 15, 2023 at the First United Church of Christ, 130 E. Church St., Belleville, WI. Rev. Laura Kolden will officiate. Military honors will be accorded.

A gathering of relatives and friends will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at the Becker-Beal Funeral Home, 109 Greenway Cross, Belleville, WI.

A memorial fund has been established.