Ronald J. `Squirrel` Edwards , Age 77


November 24, 1945 --November 15, 2022

Ronald J. "Squirrel" Edwards, age 76, of Baraboo passed away unexpectedly at home after a long illness with family by his side. Ronald, son of Philip and Pearl (Behnke) Edwards was born Nov. 24, 1945 in Baraboo. He attended Baraboo Schools. Ron enlisted in the US Navy on Aug. 28, 1964 and proudly served until his honorable discharge on July 20, 1966 and continued to serve his country in the US Navy Reserves until 1969. Ron met the love of his life, Mary Skerbeck, while working with the Skerbeck Carnival in Michigan. On Jan. 18, 1986 he was united in marriage to Mary Skerbeck at St. Joseph Catholic Church. After his discharge from the Navy, he worked at Badger Ordnance and later became a glazer for most of his working career at Baraboo area glass shops. They started Edward's Ice Cream in 1984 which is still in operation. Squirrel also owned and operated Squirrels Steam & Spray from 1989 until 2000 when he dissolved the business. He was a NASCAR and packer fan, enjoyed classic cars and family time at the family cabin in Cayuga. He also enjoyed spending time at his piece of paradise "Squirrel's Retreat" in Rock Springs. Ron will be remembered for being a people person and having a charismatic personality who loved to tell a good story and shoot the breeze.

Ron and Mary were not blessed with children but over their almost 42 years together they had four faithful Labradors, Tara, Bowser, Ginger and Reba.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Mary; brother, Scott (Amy) Edwards; sister-in-law, Janice Edwards; aunt, Donna (Jerry) Brooks; uncle, Jim Behnke; mother-in-law, Arlene Altenburg; step-son, David Kahelski and his son, Ronald as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant sister and his brother, Jim Edwards.

A prayer service will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home with Father Luke Powers officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday Nov. 21, 2022 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Military honors will be conducted at the funeral home following the prayer service. A burial will be held at Walnut Hill Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sauk County Childrens Giving Tree, the Baraboo Food Pantry or a charity of your choice.



Condolences

Deb Dooley November 17, 2022

Step daughter in law Wisconsin Dells , Wisconsin

Sending all my love and prayers to the family. I only got to meet Squirrel a few times, but really enjoyed our talks and time together. Rest in peace Ron 🙏 ❤️

Norma Schilling November 18, 2022

Friend Greenville , Michigan

I am so sorry for your loss, Mary. When I think of Ron; I think of his smile and the laughs we had together. Prayers for both families.

David & Carolyn Dallmann November 17, 2022

friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

Our deepest sympathy to you, Mary, and all of Ron's family.

Bekah Stelling November 18, 2022

Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin

So sorry for your loss Mary. Thoughts are with you. Bekah

Patty Reppenhagen November 17, 2022

Long time neighbor Baraboo , Wisconsin

Ron was a big part of my childhood. From storing my bike in the winter, paying me for stolen stuffed animals the pup grabbed, to letting me work the ice cream stand. He always had a joke or a kind word. I will miss him. The world has lost an incredible man

Mary Loveless November 21, 2022

Friend of Mary Montello , Wisconsin

So sorry for your incredible loss Mary. I did not know Ron very well, but he was always happy when I saw him. Even just a couple weeks ago when I saw you both at the Clinic. Prayers for comfort and rest for you Mary. We KNOW Ron is in a better place.

Jane Freihoefer November 23, 2022

Colleague DeForest , Wisconsin

Mary, I am so sorry for your loss. I know it well. You are in my thoughts. Let me know if I can be of help or just a quiet friend on this journey