Ronald Arlyn Wilbur

Ronald Arlyn Wilbur, 84, of Chatfield passed away March 14, 2015 at the Cottagewood Senior Communities in Rochester.

Ron was born October 18, 1930 on the family farm in Winneshiek County, Iowa to Miles K. and Valeda (Murdock) Wilbur.   He attended Pierce country school through the 8th grade.   On October 4, 1952 he married Delores “Dolly” Olson in Decorah, Iowa.  The couple farmed on their home place until 1960.

The family moved to California for a short time and later returned to Minnesota to be near family.  In 1962 he started working for Duane Rustad at Fountain Body Shop.  In 1978 he and Larry Bradt opened Chatfield Body Shop.  In 1984 he started his own repair shop in Fountain.  After retiring in 1992 he mowed for the city of Fountain for 11 years and also owned and managed apartments in Preston and Spring Valley.

Ron’s wife Dolly died March 15, 1987.  On September 10, 1988 he married VaLois Shaw.  The couple made their home in Chatfield and several of the surrounding communities.

Ron was a member of Chatfield Lutheran Church.  He was also active in the Fountain Commercial Club, and an 18 year member of the Fountain Fire Department.  He enjoyed camping, bowling, going to the casino, being outside while taking care of his yard.

Ron is lovingly remembered by his wife VaLois, of Chatfield.   Children: Joyce (Rod) Lanners of Pine Island, Randy (Pat) Wilbur of Kasson, and Tim (Linda) Wilbur of Sartell.  Grandchildren: Justin (Katie) Lanners, Corey (Jenny) Lanners, Heidi (Tyler) Zunker, Christopher (Aimee) Wilbur & Courtney Wilbur.  Step-Children: Karen (Marty) Howlett, Dana (Todd) Mihelich, & Kim (Dave) Vogen.  Step-Grandchildren: Elizabeth Howlett, Melissa Howlett, Amy Mihelich, Douglas Mihelich, Tara Mihelich, Kelly Vogen, Jenna Vogen, Jason (Jeanine) Fladeboe, & Gregory Fladeboe.  Great Grandchildren: Caleb Lanners, Eliana Lanners, Jackson Lanners, Ruby Lanners, Liam Zunker, & Avaya Maroo.  Step-Great Grandchildren: Cora Lynn Fladeboe, Quentin Fladeboe, Connor Fladeboe & Bryce Fladeboe.  Sisters: Beverly Brenno & Jeanette Inglett.

A Funeral Service to  will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, March 18, 2015  at Chatfield Lutheran Church with Pastor Mark Docken and Intern Nissa Peterson officiating.  Visitation will be from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM on Tuesday, March 17, 2015 at the Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield and one hour before the service at the church.   A committal service will take place at the Fountain Lutheran Cemetery.

Riley Funeral Home in Chatfield is assisting the family with arrangements, 507-867-4310. To share an condolence with the family please visit rileyfuneralhomes.com.

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