Ronald R. Webber

Ronald Russell Webber, 87, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family, Tuesday, January 14, 2024 at 7:00 a.m.

Ron was born December 9, 1937 in Galesburg, Illinois, the son of James R. and madge R. (Dawson) Webber. Ron attended Avon Schools as a youth. The family later moved to the Knoxville area and Ron attended Knoxville school, excelling in academics and sports. He graduated in 1956. On September 20, 1959, Ron was united in marriage to Joyce Ann Emery in Galesburg. Ron and Joyce became a team from that day forward. For 23 years, Ron and Joyce farmed together in the Knoxville, Cameron, and Abingdon areas. For most of those years, Ron also worked at OMC Gale Products in Galesburg and the Standard Station in Knoxville to support his family. In 1984 Ron and Joyce opened Webber Rentals. They operated the rental company for 17 years until they retired in 2001. He thoroughly enjoyed meeting his customers and making many friends along the way. Not one to sit still, Ron continued working, mowing yards, selling wood burning stoves, and sharpening chain saw blades. When Ron retired, he rebuilt and showed his beloved 1957 Chevrolet at local car shows and of course Joyce was at his side throughout all his endeavors.

Ron is survived by his wife, Joyce; two daughters, Julie A. Davis of Alexis, Illinois and Judy A. (Aaron) Pensinger of Farmington, Illinois; two grandchildren, Jayson Davis, who helped care for Ron the past year and Jenny Spahnie; and four great grandchildren. Ron was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Donald R. Webber; and one grandson, Jacob Ralston on July 31, 2024.

Ron had many hobbies throughout the years. He enjoyed working on hotrod cars, racing go carts and working on tractors. He competed in many tractor pulling competitions and was a member of the Spoon River Antique Tractor Association, serving as vice president and president. At one time, Ron owned over 200 antique tractors. Ron and Joyce enjoyed taking day trips together and spending time with family. He enjoyed caring for his yard and gardening.

Ron was always busy with some project, but when he did sit down he enjoyed watching westerns, Clint Eastwood movies, wrestling, basketball, and NASCAR. Joyce and Ron were always together. When Ron fell ill Joyce devoted her time to caring for him. He hoped to enjoy and celebrate their 65th Wedding Anniversary which they did on September 20, 2024.

Cremation will be accorded. No services will be held. It is Ron and Joyce’s wish to have their cremated remains interred together at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made in Ron’s memory to the American Cancer Society.