Ronald Lee Daesch

Surrounded by his family and an abundance of love, Ronald “Ronnie” Lee Daesch, 85, passed away on Friday, December 13, 2024. Son of Mildred Gladys (née Gantner) and Edwin Anthony, Ronnie was born on October 30, 1939, in Belleville, IL. Ronnie had a heart of gold, quick wit, keen sense of sarcasm, and greatly valued all of his dear family and friends.

Ronnie was known to be adventurous during his teenage years; just ask his sister and cousins. In his early 20s, he served in the Army before returning home and joining his family in his father’s painting business, E.A. Daesch Painting and Decorating. After, Ronnie transitioned to his near 30 year career as a Custodian for Belleville School District 118. Ronnie was a dedicated employee and proud of his work, so much so that he led as President of his Service Employees International Union Local 116, Vice President of the Southwest Illinois Central Labor Council, and as a delegate for the Union Label for many years. During his service, he won Labor Man of the Year, among other awards. After retiring and during spurts in his younger life, Ronnie tended bar at various establishments, his favorite being TR’s Place. Much love and good times were shared with his TR’s family.

Ronnie enjoyed bowling, fishing, playing euchre and shooting pool with his buddies, 1000-piece puzzles and crosswords, a cold Stag beer, and watching baseball, especially the St. Louis Cardinals and his grandsons’ teams for the Columbia Saints. Over the years, he was a member of the Moose Lodge 1221, Elks Lodge No. 664, Shiloh Eagles, and MoJac’s Fishing Club. Ronnie loved time spent with family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him great joy and laughs.

He was preceded to heaven by his loving mother and father; brothers, Edwin (Carol), Loraine (Shirley), and Raydean (Sandra); sisters, Rita (Bob) Appel and Marilyn (Aloys) Zinck; and a precious grandson, Lucas Morrill.

Ronnie will be greatly missed by his devoted wife of 44 years, Lucy; sons, Roland, Doug (Renea), and Alex; daughter, Maria (Andrew); supportive sister and brother-in-law, Sandy and Paul Monroe; spirited grandchildren, Jacob (fiancé, Meghan), Landon, Murphy, Mac, and Dylan Mae; sister-in-law, Stella (Bill) Hatzigeorgio and brother-in-law, Peter (Esther) Angelos; dear friends Kim Schewe, Rick Schewe, and countless other close friends; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Columbia Saints Baseball, to carry on his love of the game.