Mary Lavaughn Ronk

Mary LaVaughn Ronk, 89, of Galesburg, died at 5:10 p.m. Monday, September 16, 2013 at Seminary Manor, Galesburg. LaVaughn was born June 8, 1924 in Altona, IL to Gust and Minnie (Youngren) Anderson.  She graduated from Walnut Grove High School and Brown’s Business College.  LaVaughn was employed by Franseen Accounting and retired after 25 wonderful years from Steele Middle School.  She also volunteered at Heart Health Care for the past 10 years, most often being older than many of the residents.  LaVaughn was an active member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church and a past president of the Altar and Rosary Society. She married Robert Ronk, Sr. on June 18, 1948.  He preceded her in death on May 24, 2003.  Together they raised three sons, Robert (Roxanne), Patrick (Linda), and David all of Galesburg.  She is also survived by two grandchildren Dana and Jamie Ronk; and three great grandchildren, Jordan Ronk, Samantha Smith, and Seth Howard. LaVaughn loved to garden and was an avid reader.  Above all, she cared deeply for her family.  She was a pillar of strength and unending love without judgment or reservation. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 19, 2013 at Corpus Christi Catholic Church.  Rev. William Miller, I.C. will officiate.  Burial will follow in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Altona.  Visitation will be 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday at the Watson-Thomas Funeral Home.  Memorials may be made to Corpus Christi Altar and Rosary Society or to a charity of the donor’s choice.