Ronald H. Cutiff

Winona, MNRonald H. Cutliff, age 70, ended his journey on earth after a courageous battle with cancer on February 1, 2008 at Bluffview Transitional Care Unit.Ron was known by many names: Ron, Ronnie, Poppy, Tex, Mr. C, and Cuts. He was born in Saginaw, Michigan and spent most of his life in his beloved state of Texas.Ron had many enriching work and personal experiences in life. He was a manager for Burlington Northern Railroad for 37-1/2 years. After retirement, he remained active with many "hobby jobs" which included the US Treasury in Austin, TX, Granbury Newspaper, Great Race of Texas (an old vintage auto rally across the USA) and his passion for Texas Motor Speedway (NASCAR). His hobbies included working in his yard, planting trees and tending to his rose garden. He left the world a more beautiful place with his "green thumb" talents. In the past few years he designed and managed the construction of a magnificent log home.He enjoyed good food and especially grilling outdoors year round. He made a great chili, which became a tradition for Sunday football games. Ron was an outstanding athlete participating in softball, golf, swimming, bowling, hockey and horseshoes.Ron and his wife of 31 years, Mary (Benning) enjoyed extensive travel, including seven trips to Hawaii. They had many interesting life experiences while living in Texas, Minnesota, Washington State, and the final journey to Wisconsin.Along with his wife Mary, he is survived by his daughter Mikki (Robert) Eller and three beautiful grandchildren, Marley, Carley and Briley who reside in Texas and one sister Suzette (Glen) Barden in Michigan. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Angeline and Howard.Ron wanted no tears or funeral. Those were his wishes and "Ron's way". He wanted his loved ones and friends to celebrate his life at a memorial event which will take place at a later date in Texas, where he called home. Death ends a life not a relationship. Ron will live on in our hearts forever."Our lives are better left to chance. I could have missed the pain but I'd have had to miss THE DANCE.