Ronald J. "Ron" Verhagen

VERHAGEN, RONALD J.

Ronald J. Verhagen, age 48, of Appleton died unexpectedly on Sunday, November 23, 2008. He was born on November 15, 1960 in Appleton, the son of the late Harlan and Ann (Vander Horst) Verhagen. Ron married the love of his life, Michelle Michalkiewicz on June 15, 1990. Ron was most recently employed by Twin Lakes Transit and prior to that at Waste Management.

Ron held a special place in the hearts of all who knew him. His kindness and willingness to always lend a hand touched more people than he would have realized. Ron's unassuming ways made him the BEST kind of friend, one who always stood up for what was right. His warm, fun-loving playfulness made him well known for being quick with a joke. Ron's love of kids was shown by the often heard greeting “What's up chief?” He also had a passion for gardening, known mostly for his 12 foot tomato plants and loving to take pictures of the flowers. Ron enjoyed hunting, fishing, dancing, music and camping, with nothing but the biggest campfires, “Now that's a fire!” Hanging with family and friends was a favorite past time, always passing on his “Joie de Vive” (Love of Life) attitude and “Make the Most of Every Day”. Ron's greatest joy was just being with his “bud”, soul mate and true love, Missy. His proudest achievement…his boys…his family. …You were loved by so many. You will be missed so much Bud, you will always be my survivor.

Ron is survived by his wife: Missy Verhagen; his three sons: Ronny Verhagen, Appleton; Andrew Verhagen, at home and Matthew (fiancé Becky McCarthy) Wagner, Colorado; special nephew: Nick; his brothers and sisters: Jerry (Rogene) Verhagen, Reedsville; Diane Verhagen, Green Bay; Marilyn Nooyen, Shiocton; Rose (Dave) Stoltzman, Appleton; Tom Verhagen, Appleton; Betty (Gary) Vandenberg, Kaukauna; Dan Verhagen, Appleton; Randy (Lynn) Verhagen, Little Chute and Duane Verhagen, Appleton; sisters-in-law: Nancy (Ned) Montanye, Appleton; Shirin (partner Ron) Van Grinsven, Appleton; Julie (Mike) Bergner, Kaukauna and Tammy Michaelkiewicz, Kaukauna. He is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law: Porky and Peggy Michalkiewicz; brothers-in-law: Mike and Rochy Michalkiewicz and Ken Nooyen.

In lieu of a traditional funeral service, a celebration of Ron's life will be held at 5:00 pm on Monday, December 8, 2008 at LAKE PARK PUB, N8904 Lake Park Rd., Menasha. The family will greet friends after 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his name.

Jansen Fargo Funeral Home
204 E. Kimberly Ave.
Kimberly, WI 54136
(920)788-6202