Ronald Helgren

Born on June 16, 1929, in Florence, Wis., Ron lived a full and vibrant life shaped by service, dedication, friendship and a deep love for the outdoors.

A proud Navy veteran, Ron served his country aboard a destroyer escort during his military years. His time in the service instilled in him a lifelong respect for discipline, camaraderie and duty.

After his honorable discharge, Ron pursued a degree in early childhood education at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He began his career as a teacher at Forest Park in Crystal Falls, and through years of hard work and commitment to education, eventually rose to the role of principal, where he influenced the lives of countless students and fellow educators.

Outside the classroom, Ron found his greatest joy in nature, taking care of his vegetable garden, canning and freezing. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, known for hosting memorable deer camps with a loyal circle of friends and family. Whether deep in the Northwoods or casting a line in the Gulf, Ron was always at home in the outdoors. He had a passion for running and completed multiple marathons, as well as his last 5K race at the age of 84.

In retirement Ron split his time between Florence, where his roots ran deep, and Pine Island, Fla., where he enjoyed the warm winters and frequent fishing trips with friends. His stories, laughter, and quiet wisdom were fixtures around the daily 4 o’clock club, which he proudly hosted.

Ron will be remembered as a devoted educator, a steadfast friend, and a man who lived life on his own terms-with integrity, warmth, and a deep appreciation for family.

Ron is survived by his two daughters, Mary Francis of Menasha, Wis., and Ellie (Stan) Skibo of Green Bay, Wis.; his grandchildren, Marnie (Sterling) Phaklides, Grayne (Eydy) Skibo, Marla Francis and Pete Francis; his great-grandchildren, Maysen Sue Phaklides (7), Griffin Ron Phaklides (5), Vera Leah Skibo (10), Vince Leon Skibo (7), Komachi Francis (8) and Kento Francis (5); and his special companion, Lois LaBrecque of Marquette.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents, Valerie and Rudy Helgren; his brothers, Russ (Doris), and Fritz (Ruth); and one grandson, Adam Francis, who was killed in a tragic accident in Tokyo, Japan on May 17, 2025.

He will be deeply missed by family, friends, former colleagues, and all who had the good fortune to know him.

Per Ron’s wish, there will be no funeral service. Memorials can be sent in Ron’s name to the Florence County Historical Society P.O. Box 162, Florence, WI 54121.

Our family extends our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the VA Community Living Center for their kindness, compassion and excellent care they provided during his short stay there.

Condolences may be expressed to the family of Ronald E. Helgren online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.

The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.