Ronald Wilson

Ronald C. Wilson, age 83, of Detroit Lakes, MN, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Ronald was born March 18, 1942, to Clarence and Dorothy Wilson in Owatonna, Minnesota, and graduated from Moorhead High School. He served 4 ½ years in the Navy during the Vietnam War.

He married Joan on October 1, 1966; the couple made their home in Moorhead, MN, where they raised three children: Brenda, Rachael and Matthew. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion to family. The family opened their home to more than 2000 foster children over the course of 47 years. Ronald and Joan retired to Detroit Lakes in 2000. Ronald was a skilled appliance repairman and the proud owner of his own businesses, where he served his community with honesty and dedication for many years. He was known for his reliability, his sarcastic personality, his generosity, and his willingness to help anyone in need.

Outside of work, Ronald found joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time at the family cabin. Family was always at the heart of everything; he cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren, sharing stories, laughter, and quiet moments by the lake.

Ron will be remembered for his kind heart, strong spirit, and the countless lives he has touched. His legacy will live on in the love of his family and in the values, he passed down.

Ronald is survived by Brenda (Chris) Northrop of Galevsille, MD, Rachael (Rob) Josephson of Zimmerman, MN, (Ronald) Matthew Wilson of Detroit Lakes, MN; Kira Northrop-O’Brien, Jarret Northrop, Broden Northrop, Noelle Josephson Sandberg, Emily Josephson; and many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, his Godparents Joe and Rita Kieninger and his beloved wife Joan E. Wilson.

At Ronald’s request, no services will be held; memorial donations may be made to the American Legion’s, "Be The One" program.

https://mylegion.org/personifyebusiness/Give/Donate-Online/Donate-Now?CashProductId=134413