John Ronald "Ron" Beckel, 82, of Apple River, IL, passed away, Saturday, December 20, 2025, surrounded by family at Mercy One/Dubuque Medical Center.

A U.S. Air Force veteran, Ron served as a jet engine mechanic during the Panama Crisis and Vietnam War.

Born March 10, 1943, in Chicago, IL, Ron grew up in Crystal Lake, IL, and graduated from Mankato State where he met the love of his life, Carolyn, his wife of 54 years. Ron was a Country Companies insurance agent for 27 years. Ron and Carolyn raised their family in Woodstock, IL, and retired to Apple Canyon Lake and Sun City West, AZ.

Survived by wife, Carolyn; children, Heather (Mike) Connolly and Matt (Jill) Beckel; grandchildren, Hannah (fiancé, Brodie Eddington), Nathan, and Alyssa Connolly, and Charlie Beckel; sister, Bonny Brown; and dear family and friends.

Proceeded in death by son, John; parents, John and Madeline; brother, Al; and many loved ones.

Ron enjoyed family time, traveling, hobbies, and playing cards. Known for storytelling and singing on golf cart rides with his grandkids, Ron was a legend whose kindness and humor touched everyone he met.

Visitation will be on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Miller-Steinke Funeral Home, Scales Mound, IL, from 1pm-4pm. Private burial in March.

Memorials: Quilts of Valor Friendship Quilters, Elizabeth, IL, or Battle Buddy Box for Veterans, Galena, IL.

Special thanks to Dubuque's Mercy One Hospital, Warren Ambulance Services, and Apple Canyon Lake Rescue Squad.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I consider my life to be similar to reading a good book.  Chapter one was my childhood, chapter two my education, chapter three my military experience, chapter four my wife and family, and chapter five my career.  I am excited about the next chapter – retirement.

I am very pleased with my life and the many chapters that I have lived, and all of the people I have met and accomplishments I have made.

My wish is that everyone has the opportunity to look back with great satisfaction as each one completes the chapters in the book of their lives.

With all best wishes, I say farewell.

Ron

*Written on November 13, 2003, in his letter of resignation from Country Companies Insurance.