Ronald J. “Ron” Hertel, 73, of Haubstadt, completed his journey on Earth Friday, Oct. 15, 2010 at VNA Charlier Hospice Center in Evansville surrounded by his family.

Born June 26, 1937 in Evansville, he was the son of Linus and Ludwina (Schuler) Hertel.

Ron resided in Haubstadt for 38 years. He was employed at Red Spot Paint and Varnish for 35 years.

 Ron was a member of St. James Catholic Church.  He loved to squirrel, rabbit, duck and goose hunt and playing Clabber. He also enjoyed sharing his experiences with his family and friends and teaching his grandchildren all the things that he had learned in his life.

Survivors include his wife of 44 years, Linda (Elpers) Hertel; one daughter, Technical Sgt. Theresa L. Bradley of Scott AFB, Ill.; one  son, Gary J. Hertel of Evansville; three grandchildren, Christopher Bradley of Powder Springs, Ga. Gracie and Ryan Hertel of Evansville; three sisters, Eva Jean Will of Jacksonville, Fla., Carol Datzman (Gary) and Donna Swanson (Pete) all of Newburgh; several nieces,  nephews and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers-in-law, Ken J. Will, Chester Fenwick,John Hurley; and his father and mother-in-law, Clarence and Loretta Elpers.

A Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 18, 2010 at St. James Catholic Church with Father Kenneth Betz as the celebrant.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Friends visited with the family in the celebration of Ronald’s life from 2-8 p.m. Sunday at Wade Funeral Home, 119 S. Vine St., Haubstadt. A Rosary service took place  at 5 p.m.  Visitation will also be from 9 a.m. until Mass time Monday at the church.

The family would like to thank the VNA-Charlier Hospice Center for their care and compassion as his journey came to an end.  Also, St. Mary’s Medical Center sixth floor South Unit for their strength and compassion as hard decisions were made as well as Pine Haven Health and Rehabilitation Center staff and nurses for their loving care and kindness during his stay.