Ronald L. Ashenbremer Obituary (1947 - 2013)

Ronald "Ron" L. Ashenbremer, 66, of Bloomington passed away suddenly on Tuesday (Oct. 29, 2013) at Advocate BroMenn Medical Center, Normal.His visitation will be from 3-4 p.m. Saturday, May 17, 2014 at Carmody-Flynn Williamsburg Funeral Home, Bloomington, where a celebration of Rons life will follow at 4 p.m. All are invited to share their memories. Military rites will be accorded by the Bloomington-Normal American Legion Honor Guard.Memorials may be made to the Wish Bone Canine Rescue (www.wishbonecaninerescue.org).Ron was born in Pontiac, on July 26, 1947, to George Jr. and Betty Lebo Ashenbremer. He married Rebecca "Becki" Fields on Dec 3, 1971, at St. Marys Church, Bloomington.He is survived by his mother, Betty Ashenbremer, Bloomington; wife and soul mate, Becki Ashenbremer, Bloomington; two children, Dawn Belmar, Downs, and Aaron Ashenbremer, Bloomington; four grandchildren, Joshua Belmar, Nashville; Brandi Belmar, Downs; Deacon Ashenbremer, Atlanta; and Charlize Ashenbremer, Atlanta; two brothers, Robert "Bob" Ashenbremer, Heyworth, and Paul Ashenbremer, Bloomington; and one sister born on his birthday, Mary Ann (Mike) Folks, Bloomington. He is also survived by hisspoiled dog, Buster.He was preceded in death by his father.Ron attended school in Pontiac and after graduation enlisted in the U.S. Air Force serving from 1966 to 1970. Ron proudly served in Detachment II, 38 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squad. Stationed in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive, he rescued and recovered downed pilots and activated unexploded ordnance. Ron received the Air Force Commendation Medal and Vietnam Service Medal. He also served in the 4th Strat Aerospace Division as a helicopter mechanic and safety inspector in Grand Forks, N.D.Ron was a lifelong member of Local U.A. 99 and a member serving many years on the H.V.A.C. board for the City of Bloomington. He continued to serve his country and brotherhood throughout his life; a member of Vietnow, Disabled American Veterans, V.F.W. and the American Legion. Ron was also on the Korean Vietnam Memorial building committee. He often played Santa through Vietnow cheering families in need. He served many years as an Honor Guard, veteran welcome home committees, and proudly marching with his brothers through life, helping them up if they fell.When needed, Ron never said "No." An honest, hardworking man, selfless ... always putting others first. Throughout his life he was constantly helping others, often without pay. He could fix anything and he would. Patient, clever and steadfast, if Ron couldnt fix it ... it couldnt be fixed.Ron was the owner and sole proprietor of ASHCO a HVAC/R installation and service company. His specialty was commercial restaurant equipment, the service master of his field.A devoted husband, kind father and fun grandfather, Ron spent countless hours with his beloved grandchildren, enjoying each moment. A family man, who loved his home, Ron was easy to please. He loved and cherished his family.Words can never express our sorrow or how much we will miss him. He was taken from us much too soon; yet he leaves behind his undying love and wisdom. He is our rock. Ron was an easy-going, humble man who never judged others. He loved the great outdoors, nature and respected all Gods creatures.When recently diagnosed with multiple cancers and a grim future, Ron kept the faith, gallantly fought and never complained.God called our Hero home ... The angels lifted him up.