Ronald L. Horner

MT. IDA – Ronald L. Horner, age 78, of Mt. Ida, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. He was born on February 5, 1948, in Gays Mills, the son of Charles and Clarabelle (Sime) Horner.

Ronald graduated from North Crawford High School in 1966. Following graduation, he was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. During his military service, Ronald was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device 60, Combat Infantryman Badge, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Air Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm. He was honorably discharged in 1970.

Following his military service, Ronald worked for Wick Homes, the cheese factory in Ferryville, and the orchards before beginning a 22.5-year career with Milprint in Lancaster.

On October 20, 1990, Ronald was united in marriage to Ellen Mook at Gays Mills Lutheran Church. Together, they shared many years of marriage and cherished memories.

Ronald was an avid sports fan, especially the Milwaukee Brewers and occasionally, the Green Bay Packers. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, mowing, and spending time working in his yard. He took great pride in caring for his home and property. Above all, Ronald dearly loved his family and will be remembered for his quick sense of humor and straightforward nature. He was a stern but loving man who was never afraid to speak his mind and always remained true to himself.

Ronald will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his loving wife, Ellen; daughter, Tammie (Martin) Adams; four grandchildren: Anthony Horner, Andrew Horner, Natasha (Nate) Gantenbein, and Michael Evans; two great-grandchildren: Carter and Claire Gantenbein; his sister, Sharon (Robert) Baumeister; his sister-in-law, Lois Mook; special friend, Paul Becker; his four-legged friends, Chief and Georgie; other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Ronald was preceded in death by his children: Tracy Lee and Todd Allen Horner; his sister, Charlotte (Robert) Boughton; his mother and father-in-law, Roland and Joyce Mook; his in-laws: Darrell J. Mook, Christine A. Mook Riley, Douglas W. Mook, and Larry E. Mook.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. with military honors at 2:00 p.m. at the Gays Mills Community Center, 16381 WI-131, Gays Mills, WI 54631. Kramer-Grau Funeral Homes & Crematory in Lancaster is entrusted with his care.