Ronald Gene Van Able

JANESVILLE - Ronald Gene Van Able passed away peacefully August 18, 2018, at Cedar Crest Retirement Community at the age of 82. Ron was born on December 6, 1935 in Oconto, WI to William and Eunice (LeMay) Van Able. On October 5, 1963, he married Sandra Kay Weber at Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. Ronald always affectionately referred to Sandra as his bride of all these years. After two years in the US Army, Ron attended the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater to earn his Bachelors Degree. He went on to earn a Masters Degree in Counseling while attending the University of Northern Iowa. Using the GI Bill, he continued his studies at UW-Superior and the University of British Columbia-Vancouver. His first job was as a teacher in the Hortonville School District. After that he became a high school counselor in Brodhead. From there, Ron finished his career as a professor at Blackhawk Technical College from 1970 to 1993. With pride and passion, he taught psychology, sociology, human relations, and police science. He officiated for high school sports through the WIAA in football, basketball, volleyball, and wrestling for 45 years. Ron was giving of his time. He started a Bikes for Kids program through the United Way of Rock County. As a youngster, poverty prevented him from having a bike. So he made sure that those that need a bicycle had access to one, as no one should be without a bike. Over the years, Ron enjoyed traveling to exotic locations around the globe. He traveled extensively with his wife and daughters. He was a supporter of the Milwaukee Brewers, Green Bay Packers, UW Badger football and hockey, and local theater. Ron will be sorely missed by his children: Alison (David) Viemeister of Janesville, WI and Stacy Van Able of Milwaukee, WI; his brother Justin (Joan) Van Able of Oak Creek, WI and nieces: Jacqueline (Mark) Wagner and Jenifer Van Able. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra in 2015: his sister, Cheryl Petrucci: and his parents. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial to ECHO, the GIFTS Mens Shelter or the Rock County Humane Society. A memorial visitation will take place on August 24, 2018 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm and again, August 25, 2018 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at ALL FAITHS FUNERAL CHAPEL, 1618 E. Racine St., Janesville, WI. Private family inurnment will take place following the visitation. All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Services Janesville (608)754-8700 www.866allfaiths.com