Ronald A. Johnsen

Ronald A. Johnsen. 86, a resident of Janesville, WI, formerly a 42-yr. resident of Rockford, IL, died peacefully in his home on Friday, January 5, 2024. Born March 6, 1937 in Chicago, son of Roy A. and Laura Karls Johnsen. Ron graduated from Lane Tech in Chicago and earned his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology. He married Gail C. Cirricione in Chicago on June 29, 1957. He retired as president of Aquamatic, Rockford in 1997, after which he and Gail enjoyed traveling the world together.

Ron could be described as a Renaissance man. He fully and deeply loved his high school sweetheart who became his wife of 66 years. He was intelligent in so many ways and was infinitely patient, kind and loving. He was a pillar of strength who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. He was the rock in all of his family’s lives. His wise words and unconditional love will be carried by his family forever. Plus, he had the great ability to make bald look good.

Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Gail; children, Judith (Paul) Marchi, Lori (Joe) Dauven, Jeffrey (Cathy) Johnsen and Kimberly (Norm) Bittner; grandchildren, Carissa Felber, Jamie (Jason) Wojdyla, John (Lori) Opager, Teresa Lucas, Evan Bittner (fiance’ Madi Loveland), Caroline Bittner; great-grandchildren, Grey Felber, Harper and Bailey Wojdyla and Dorothy Gail Opager. Also survived by his sister-in-law, Judith Johnsen, brother-in-law, Paul (Donna) Cirricione and his precious little puppy, Suzy. Predeceased by his parents, grandsons, Matthew Natale and Terry Lindaas and brother James Johnsen.

No services will be held, but if family and friends wish to honor Ron by giving a memorial, this may be done to the Southern Wisconsin Humane Society, 4700 S. County Road G, Janesville, WI 53546 or American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284.

The family was assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel. Send condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.