Ron Stepanek, 68, a longtime Williston, N.D., resident and McKenzie County farmer and rancher, returned to his Lord on Monday, March 15, 2010, at St. Alexius Hospital in Bismarck, N.D., after suffering an aneurysm the preceding Friday.

His funeral will be celebrated Monday, March 22, 2010, at 11 a.m. at Faith United Methodist Church in Williston, N.D. Rev. Rod Tkach will officiate, and interment will follow in Riverview Cemetery.

Ron was born July 22, 1941, in Williston, N.D., to Al and Clare (Slator) Stepanek. The only child of Al and Clare’s and born early, Ron was not expected to live, but upon leaving the hospital after two months, thrived at the Stepanek farm at Elk Township in McKenzie County. He loved the outdoors, farm life, and playing ball with his grandpa and cousins who would drop by. Ron attended the Elk Township country school, graduated from Alexander High School with the Class of 1959 and went on to NDSU in Fargo, N.D., where he received a bachelor’s degree with a major in math. Ron was voted “best dressed” by his fellow students at Alexander High.

After college, Ron joined the National Guard where he served in various locations around the United States and went on to serve as an officer.

On May 6, 1967, Ron married Kay Knutson at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church in Williston. The proudest day of Ron and Kay’s married life was the day they brought their only child, Cavett, home. They made their home on the farm during the summer months and in Williston during the school year.

Ron spent all of his life farming and ranching in McKenzie County.

He served for many years on the board of directors at the NW Grain Co-op and as its president for a time, and was a longtime member of the Elks Township Board. He was a member of Moose Lodge #239 and the Elks Club.

Ron enjoyed spending time with family and friends, whether visiting over a cup of coffee or hosting many a hunt on his land. He liked to hunt deer and birds. He truly loved watching television, especially sporting events, NASCAR and reading. He loved to go out to eat with friends and family, and dance with Kay.

He was a devoted husband, a wonderful father and stayed very attentive to his folks’ needs. Ron never had a bad thing to say about anyone and always had a smile for anybody who happened along during the day. He was an exceedingly patient man and never complained about anything that might be adversely affecting himself. He will be missed greatly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ron is survived by his wife of 43 years, Kay Stepanek, Williston, N.D.; son, Cavett Stepanek, and his wife, Linda, Williston; his special cousins; two nephews; and one great-nephew; and two special brothers-in-law, Pete Shae and wife, JoAnn, Ulen, Minn., and Ron Shae, who lives on the farm and has helped Ron with his farming and machinery for years.

Preceding Ron in death were his parents, grandparents, and an aunt and uncle.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorials be directed to the Williston Moose Lodge #239 scholarship foundation.

Friends may visit www.eversonfh.com to share remembrances of Ron and may also call at the Everson Funeral Home Sunday from 1-5 p.m. and Monday at the church for the hour preceding the funeral.

The Everson Funeral Home of Williston is caring for the family.