PLOVER - Ron was born on September 3, 1944 in Cleveland, the son of Clarence E. and Anne M. (Satorius) Crute. He graduated from E.E. Root High School in 1962 and went directly into the United States Marine Corps. During his service, he spent six months in the Mediterranean and later served in Vietnam from 1965 to 1966.
He and Pauline A. (Fava) were married on May 5, 1967. Together, in 1969, they moved to Rhinelander and in time had two daughters, Allison Huebner and Angela Crute. In 2011, Ron and Polly moved to Plover to be closer to their eldest daughter and granddaughter.
A dedicated and hardworking man, Ron spent 38 years at St. Mary’s Hospital, beginning as a custodian and ultimately serving as Director of Buildings and Grounds. He was also a founding member of the Pine Lake Fire Department, where he served for 22 years, much of that time as chief.
Ron enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing and camping. He had a passion for history and travel and was highly skilled in carpentry, plumbing, construction, and electrical work, often helping family, friends, and others with their building needs. He supported several charities, including his church, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and Native American education funds. He was also a storyteller, often sharing stories of his escapades growing up and of his many travels to places domestic and foreign.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Linda; his brother, Keith; and his beloved wife, Pauline A. (Fava) Crute. He is survived by his two daughters; granddaughter Lauren Huebner; grandson Milan Cannamela; and many nieces and nephews.
He was deeply loved by his family and will be greatly missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pine Lake Town Hall, in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, on June 14, 2026. Time to be determined and posted at a later date.
