Ronald Wayne Goethke

Ronald W. Goethke, age 74 of Gaylord formerly of Norwood Young America, died on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the Hillcrest Rehabilitation Center in Mankato, MN. A Memorial Service will be at the Kolden Funeral Home in Arlington, MN on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m to 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Veteran's honors to follow memorial service with a luncheon and refreshments held at St. Mary's Catholic Church Social Hall in Arlington MN.

Ronald was born on May 27, 1950, in Shakopee, MN to Wallace and Delores (Fenske) Goethke. He grew up on a cattle farm in Norwood Young America as a child. He graduated from Norwood High School in 1968. He worked at Tanka Toys for a year before entering the United States Army in 1969. He was stationed in both Vietnam and stateside from 1969 until his Honorable Discharge in 1973 with the rank of E5. Ron was also in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1976 until 1982 leaving with the rank of SP5.

Ron married Charlene Schmitt on November 14, 1975. They have two children, Thomas and Robyn. Ron was a Jack of all trades, working at Green Giant until 1984, the Feed Mill until 1996 as well as a regional truck driver until retiring in 2012. Ron enjoyed ice fishing, playing cards especially sheepshead and skat, bowling, camping with family as well as his metal recycling hobby.

Ron is survived by his wife of 49 years, Charlene; Son, Thomas (Stacy Bartels) Goethke of Arlington, MN and daughter, Robyn (James) Goff of N. Mankato, MN. Eight grandchildren- Courtney (Logan), Thomas (Rylinn), Marissa, Brittney, Trever, Hailey, Chase and Victoria as well as 1 great-grandson- Leighton. Brother; Don (Diane) Goethke of Arlington, MN and sisters, Joan Jabs of Plymouth, Wl and Jan (Joe) Fank of St. Mary's, Kansas. In-laws, Lyle & Sheila Schmitt, Lida & Dan Deutsch, Corey Basol, Brenda & Paul Haaland and Sally Schmitt. Along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Richard Goethke, sister, Annie (Bob) Roepke, and niece Barb Reierson. Brother In-laws; Butch Schmitt, Blaine Basol, Parent In-laws; Joe and Francis Schmitt.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials are preferred.