Ronald Marlyn Dengler, a beloved figure in the Dysart community, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at MercyOne Hospital, surrounded by his family. He was 77 years old at the time of his passing. Ronald's life, marked by unwavering strength and spirited joy, was a testament to the love he shared with those around him.

Born on November 2, 1948, in Waterloo, Iowa, Ron was the son of Marlyn and Dorothy (Bohnstengel) Dengler. He proudly graduated from Dysart Geneseo High School in 1967, a milestone that would set the stage for his future endeavors. Following high school, he pursued further education at Ellsworth Community College, where he earned an associate's degree in Retail Marketing in 1969. Ron’s first professional chapter began as the Shoe Department Manager for Montgomery Ward—an amusing role considering his color blindness, which sparked lighthearted laughter among family and friends regarding his ability to match shoes!

In 1970, a momentous event unfolded at a teen dance in Dysart when Ron caught the eye of Anne Hatton. The attraction was mutual, leading to their marriage on April 10, 1970, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Traer, Iowa. Together, they built a life in Dysart, where Ron applied his talents to farming, particularly excelling in raising dairy goats. This passion was later complemented by his role as a bus driver for the Union School District, a position which he cherished for the chance it gave him to connect with children daily—a special highlight being a family he affectionately referred to as his “angels,” who often spoiled him with homemade treats.

Ron’s retirement brought new adventures, including a memorable cruise with Anne and dedicated time to attend sporting events for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His lively nature and unwavering support were evident even when he wasn’t a fan of the sport. One of his proudest moments came when he organized a family slow-pitch team, skillfully managing them to victory in a local tournament.

Notably, Ron had a fondness for Busch Light tall boys, preferring them cold, and his lively personality illuminated every room he entered. In February 2025, Ron faced a challenging diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer. He fought valiantly, embodying the spirit of a true warrior until his last breath.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers-in-law, Charlie Arditi, Dennis Hatton, and David Hatton; a nephew, Brandon Lee; and a niece, Sara Bohnstengel. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Anne of Dysart; son, Rodney Dengler of Waterloo; three grandchildren: Tabitha (Jason) Grandon of Waterloo, Austin Dengler of Cedar Falls, and Kilee Dengler of Dysart; three great-grandchildren: Izzah, Callan, and Hunter Grandon; two sisters, Kathy (Kent) Stevens of Granger, IA, and Darlys Arditi of Florida; along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Services to honor Ron’s memory will take place at Zion Lutheran Church in Dysart, Iowa, with a visitation scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 10:30 AM. He will be laid to rest following the service at Buckingham Cemetery in Traer, Iowa, at 1:00 PM.

Ron’s memory will live on through the love he shared and the lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.