Ronald Keith Meeker, 73, died in an accident on Sunday, June 18, 2023. He was born on Jan. 20, 1950, in Pisgah, to Clifford and Mary (Griffis) Meeker. He was the youngest of 13 children. He started school in Woodbine, but while he was young his family moved to Persia and eventually Beebeetown, so his schooling continued at Tri-Center where he graduated with the Class of 1969. Ronnie was married to Glenda Heim on Oct. 12, 1968. As a teenager, Ronnie started working with his brother, Larry before starting his own business, Meeker Well in 1976. He also started farming Glenda’s parents farm in 1992.
Ronnie possessed an infectious spirit that was prevalent in all aspects of his life. He had an enormous zest for life and a magnetic personality that drew people towards him. He never failed to bring a smile to those around him with his practical jokes and sense of humor. Ronnie had several hobbies which included working his mules, snowmobiling, fishing, hunting and playing cards. Moreover, he never missed an opportunity to show off his amazing skills on the dance floor. Ronnie loved Meekerfest and would look forward to it every year. Ronnie also loved the mountains. One of Ronnie's greatest joys was officiating wrestling matches and sharing his knowledge of wrestling with younger generations. At the age of 72, he finally “officially” received his coaching certification. Above all else, Ronnie will be remembered most for the love he had for his family - His grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in his heart.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents; son, Ryan Meeker on Dec. 18, 1988; siblings, Margaret Kinsella, Lois Erixon, Darlene Forsen, Clayton Meeker, Wilma Nodean, Merle Meeker, Larry Meeker, Dwight Meeker, Dale Meeker and Maryann Farnsworth; and parents-in-law, Harley and Marvelene Heim. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Glenda Meeker; children, Brenda and her husband Paul Zahner of Sergeant Bluff and son, Rick Meeker and his wife Leigh of Woodbine; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren with one on the way; sisters, Barbara Meeker of Council Bluffs and Donna Zywiec of Schuyler, Neb.; and many other relatives and friends.
A funeral service was held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, at Woodbine Community School. Pastor Nikki Ahart presided over the service. The musicians were Angie Pryor and Bob Smith with musical selection “Wind Beneath My Wings” and recorded selection “The Well” by Casting Crowns. The honorary pallbearers were Rod Meeker, Kris Michael, Kim Mann, Roger Meeker, Rex Meeker, Randall Meeker, Bob Kinsella, Kenny Kovac, Mike Schimp, Bob Thompson, Todd Heistand, Max Jones and Trever Melby. The pallbearers were Jake Zahner, Cole Meeker, Cydney Dickinson, Cade Meeker, Brett Zahner, Taylor Zahner, Jordyn Zahner, Cuy Meeker and Cayne Meeker. Ronnie’s final resting place is at the Woodbine Cemetery.
Fouts Funeral Home in Woodbine was in charge of arrangements. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
