Ronald Schildhauer

Ronald Lee Schildhauer, 77, of Renner, South Dakota, passed away at his home on Sunday, August 2, due to heart failure.

On Thursday, August 6, 2026, Visitation will be from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM at Minnehaha Funeral Home of Dell Rapids with a prayer service beginning at 11:00 AM with Pastor Greg Johnson officiating.

Private family burial will follow at the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery in Sioux Falls.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to the South Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Alliance post 628, or Renner Lutheran Church.

Ron was born and raised in Dell Rapids, South Dakota, to Chris and Donna Schildhauer. He grew up surrounded by the love and companionship of his five sisters, creating strong family values.

Following his graduation from high school, Ron proudly served in the United States Air Force. He completed basic training at Oxnard Air Force Base and served as a Special Military Police officer during the Vietnam War. His military service reflected his deep sense of duty, honor, and commitment to his country.

On October 30, 1976, Ron married Linda Heng. Together they built a life filled with love and laughter. This October, they would celebrate 50 years of marriage. Together they raised two daughters, Andrea (Andi) and Miranda (Mindy), who were among his greatest treasures along with his six grandchildren.

Ron dedicated 40 years of hard work and loyal service to Williams Pipeline, now known as Magellan in Sioux Falls, SD. He was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and dedication throughout his career.

Outside of work, Ron found happiness in life's simple pleasures. He loved watching westerns, hunting pheasants, attending tractor club with the neighbors, sharing meals with family and friends, and gathering around the table for spirited games of canasta. He was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved, enjoying good food, good company, and plenty of laughter. To those who knew him best, Ron's life could be summed up in three words: family, food, and fun.

Ron leaves behind his wife, Linda; his daughters, Andrea (Andi) Nelson, (Rick) of Baltic and Miranda (Mindy) Hammer (Brad) of Garretson; six grandchildren, William Rentschler of Sioux Falls, Andrew Tommeraasen of Dell Rapids, Kaylynn Tommeraasen of Garretson, Izabel Hammer of Garretson, and Josh and Kate Nelson of Baltic; sisters, Marie Kruger of Dell Rapids, Linda (Mason) Neville of Colton, Marlene “Beck” (John) Hauglid of Colman and JoAnn “Etta” (Mike) Borns of Dell Rapids; his many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded by death by his parents, Chris and Donna; sister, Dee Woods; brother in-law, Gus Kruger; and nephew, Luke Kruger.

Ron will be remembered for his quiet strength, steadfast dedication, generous heart, and the love he gave so freely to his family. His legacy of service, hard work, and devotion to those he loved will live on in the lives of all who knew him and all the stories that were told.