Ronald Sylvester Smerda

Ronald S. Smerda, 76, of Mosinee, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on May 25, 1949, the son of the late John and Hilder (Sparby) Smerda. He married Jeanne Shebelski on Oct. 2, 1971, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Mosinee. She survives.

Ron grew up on a farm in Rocky Ridge where he attended a one room schoolhouse until 6th grade, and graduated from Mosinee High in 1967. While attending high school Ron participated in football and wrestling. Following high school Ron was employed at Mosinee Paper Mill for 25 years and then at Foremost until his retirement. Ron was also active in his community, serving as a member of the Knights of Columbus and on the Mosinee Fire and ambulance crew for 20 years. In his younger years Ron enjoyed playing on softball, golf and bowling leagues. Deer hunting was also a passion for Ron, and he was proud of his 16 point buck. Ron was also an avid sports fan who especially enjoyed watching the Packers, Brewers and Wisconsin Badgers. Following retirement, Ron and Jeanne enjoyed a cruise, bus trips and vacationing down south. Ron's greatest legacy is his family, with his grandchildren being his pride and joy. Attending their various activities was one of his favorite past times.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be given to St Paul Catholic Church in Mosinee or Good News Project Inc in Wausau. Ron's family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to caregiver Sharon from Inner peace and Compassus Homecare and Hospice.

Survivors, besides his wife, Jeanne, include 2 children: Greg (Gretchen) Smerda, Sun Prairie, and Julie (Brian) Mehlberg, Manawa; 3 grandchildren: Erin Mehlberg, Brody and Bennett Smerda, and an adopted granddaughter, Jamie Kazmierczak; a brother, Robert (Susan) Smerda, Wausau; and a brother in-law, Leroy Steffen, Ogema. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Nicholas Mehlberg and a sister, Beverly Steffen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Mosinee. The Rev. Aaron Becker will officiate. Visitation will be from 9:00 am until time of services, Tuesday, all at the church. Burial will be at St. Paul Cemetery, Mosinee. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com