Ronald Joseph Barribeau passed away on February 6, 2025 in Baraboo, Wisconsin at the age of 93. He was born on Christmas Day in 1931 to Xavier and Elsie Barribeau of Oconto.
Ron was an accomplished athlete in his early years, playing baseball and football. He served his country during the Korean War, which brought him great pride.
Ronald married Julaine “Julie” Elizabeth Mair in May 1955. They loved each other for 73 years. They had two daughters and a son: Amy Barribeau Lang, Lori (Rich) Sterkowitz and Paul (Claude Mills) Barribeau, as well as five grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.
Ron completed a teaching degree from Luther College in Decorah, IA, where he also excelled in sports. Offered a chance to play baseball professionally, Ron chose teaching instead. He began his career as a teacher and coach in Fredericksburg, IA, then in Brodhead, and later in Eau Claire. In 1960 he became Director of Parks and Recreation in Monroe, WI. Ron spent his last professional years working for Gerber Leisure products equipping playgrounds and sports fields.
In the late 1970’s Ron and Julie relocated to Wausau. They spent their last years together in Baraboo. Following Julie’s death in 2022, Ron lived happily surrounded by his family, watching sports and old movies, and indulging his beloved pug, Beau.
Always with the heart of a prankster, Ron loved to kid people and always had a great story to tell. He had a remarkable memory. He never forgot his students and the ball players he coached, dear friends and relatives, keeping in contact with many of them.
Ron and Julie are survived by all their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
We are grateful that Ron touched so many lives as a devoted husband, father, brother, and coach. We love him, remember him, and will miss him. The Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home of Baraboo is assisting the family.
Heather Buelow February 08, 2025
Acquaintance Baraboo , Wisconsin
I’m really sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of getting to know Ron, Julie and beau when I worked at oak park place and thought the world of Ron and Julie both. Rip Ron you will be missed dearly!
Debbie Running February 08, 2025
Acquaintance Waukesha , Wisconsin
Always enjoyed talking to Ron and Beau on my way in to Oak Park to visit my mom.
Emil & Jean Bronecki February 08, 2025
Neighbors Baraboo , Wisconsin
Our deepest condolences to Ron's family and friends. We were Ron's & Beau's neighbors here at Oak Park Place for the last two years and will miss him terribly. Such a sweet and fun man full of interesting stores told on his patio with Beau at his side. Will miss seeing Amy coming and going on visits to her Dad. Again, our sympathies for your loss and will always remember Ron always with warmth.
Judith Maier February 13, 2025
Friend Ringle , Wisconsin
Ron Barribeau Family: We are sooooo saddened to hear of the loss of your Wonderful Father. We loved your dad and mom. We missed our breakfast with them at Eagles Nest. Butch and your Dad always called each other an Agitator. We loved his sense of Humor. Our Sincere Condolences. Love Butch and Judy Maier
Barbara J Opatik February 14, 2025
Caregiver Baraboo , Wisconsin
It was an honor taking care of Ron. He had such a great personality.