Ronald L. Hetzler

MADISON - Ronald L. Hetzler, age 78, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2017, with his wife, Margaret, and his son, Bill, by his side. After more than a decade battle with Alzheimers Disease, which Ron met head on with courage, poise, and humor, he simply took his last breath and was gone. Ron was born Jan. 29, 1939, to Edwin Maynard and Alice (Epperly) Hetzler in the small community of Cantril, Iowa. There with his three brothers, Ron enjoyed a childhood of fishing and hunting and mischief. During hard times, the young Ronald watched and emulated his mother, Alice, who did everything necessary to successfully raise her boys. Ron always said of his Mother, Shes an angel on this earth. Ron served for four years in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Korea for a year. Afterward, he worked multiple jobs including as a service rep for Schappe Pontiac and as a flight instructor and salesman for Frickelton Aviation in Madison. His career was with the U.S. Postal Service from which he retired in 2004. His lifelong passion was for flying airplanes and he flew many. His Citabria aerobatic plane and his Cassutt Racer were among his favorites. Both satisfied his need for speed and the exhilaration of balls to the wall, as he would sometimes say. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; and his twin brother, Donald (DeEtta) Hetzler of Hazen, N.D. He is survived by his wife, Margaret L. (Anderson) Hetzler of Madison; his son, William R. Bill Hetzler of Portland, Ore.; two brothers, Larry (Helen) Hetzler of Plattsmouth, Neb., and James (Diane) Hetzler of Ottumwa, Iowa; three half siblings, Eric Hetzler of Lacy, Wash., and Olga and Susan of Calif.; and many nieces and nephews. A special remembrance celebration is being planned for early October in Iowa. Anyone wishing to honor Rons memory might consider a gift to Alzheimers Research or to Agrace HospiceCare of Madison. We wish to send a heartfelt thank you to Agrace HospiceCare and especially to Jennifer and Rebecca for their excellent care of Ron. All Faiths Funeral & Cremation Services Madison (608)442-0477 www.866allfaiths.com