Ronald Dale Drews

Ronald Dale Drews left this world on February 1, 2025, at the age of 68. Ron was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, cherished brother, uncle, and dear friend to many.

Born in Racine, Ron later moved to Rhinelander, where he pursued his interest in the automotive industry. It was there that he met the love of his life, Dawn (DeMeyer) Drews, and they were married in 1977, building a beautiful life together for nearly 48 years.

Ron dedicated 33 years of his career to Triumph Twist Drill, where he was known for his hard work, loyalty, and humor. When the company was acquired, Ron embraced a new challenge, studying graphic design at Nicolet College. His creative talents and generous heart led him to serve friends and family through photography, capturing cherished memories at weddings, birthdays, and special events. For the past 20 years, Ron worked for Rhinelander Transit, where he found joy in meeting new people, striking up conversations, and making everyone feel welcome. Whether he was getting college kids home safely, offering a listening ear to those who needed one, or sharing a laugh with coworkers, he touched countless lives simply by being himself.

Ron’s kindness, humor, and gentle heart left a lasting impact on all who knew him. He had a contagious belly laugh, a warm smile that could light up a room, and the best bear hugs — the kind that wrapped you in love and made you feel like everything would be okay. Those who knew him remember him as loving, giving, and full of wisdom, always ready with a joke, a listening ear, or a few words of advice that came from a place of deep care.

Beyond his work, Ron found happiness in the simple joys of life. He loved camping in Upper Michigan, especially along the shores of Lake Superior, where he could enjoy the peacefulness of nature. He had a talent for drawing and painting, and he enjoyed working on his computer, always learning something new. But above all, his greatest joy was his family — especially his grandchildren, who he loved wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Whether it was playing, storytelling, or simply being present, he cherished every moment with them.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn; his daughter, Heidi Bramm (Drews), and son-in-law, Ben Bramm; and his precious grandchildren, Claira, Amber, Eleanor, and Mae Bramm, and Emily Patton. He also leaves behind his brothers, Richard Drews, Gary Drews, and Duane Drews, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and in-laws, all of whom adored him. His God-parents, Gloria and Donald Bielefeldt, held a special place in his heart.

Ron was welcomed into heaven by his daughter, Jaime, his parents, Gertrude and Donald Drews, his God-parent, Donald Bielefeldt, and many others that had gone before him. We find comfort in knowing that they are reunited, no doubt laughing, telling stories, and watching over us all.

To know Ron was to be blessed by his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family. His memory will live on in every shared story, every laugh, and every warm embrace given in his honor. He was truly one of a kind — a man of faith, family, and deep, genuine love.

A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at a later date after his wife joins him in eternity. The family asks that you carry forward his kindness — whether through a helping hand, a heartfelt laugh, or a simple moment of being present for someone who needs it. That is how Ron lived, and that is how he would want to be remembered. 

His love and laughter will echo in our hearts forever.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hildebrand Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, 24 E. Davenport Street, Rhinelander, Wisconsin, 54501, 715-365-4343. Everyone is invited to leave an online condolence at www.hildebrandrussfh.com.