MADISON - From the second he was born, everyone knew that Ron was special. He had a gift to create connections and spread love wherever he went. Everyone who met Ron remembered him, and Ron remembered everyone he met (including their birthdays). He would always remember to tell you that “So-and-So says hi”, connecting the web of people throughout his life.

Speaking of webs, Ron loved spider pranks. Jokes and pranks filled up a lot of his daytime activities, and he always did things to brighten peoples’ days. He also loved Halloween and funny hats, wrestling, poetry and writing, word plays and puns, old TV shows and music, card games, parties, and a good kid’s meal from Culver’s.

He was an active member of many communities. Through Special Olympics, Ron enjoyed bowling, bocce ball, track and field, and basketball. Ron had a long career (26 years) at both Walgreens and the University of Wisconsin, where he delivered mail and chatted with everyone who needed a smile that day.

He partook in many dances and would karaoke as often as possible, usually with his best friend and roommate, Jim Smail. Jim and Ron have been inseparable since they were 18 months old. When they were together, you could usually find them performing, laughing, and finding adventures.

Ron loved all of his friends and family. We all learned so much from him. From all of our experiences with Ron, we hope you take a minute to sit and play a game with your loved ones, call them on their birthdays, give them long, genuine hugs and too many kisses, and make sure they all know they’re special to you.

Ron is survived by so, so, so many friends and family. He has a tight knit community that will always remember him and miss him dearly; we may be sad, but he has ever lasting peace. While we experience the loss of our loved ones, they have gained eternity, which we can only imagine. He is survived by many cousins; more nieces and nephews than anyone could count; and brothers and sisters, Bev Schilz, Diane (Tom) Kemper, Steve (Patty) Gausmann, Gwen (David) Freiberg and Candice Gausmann; and his best friend and roommate, Jim Smail. He also loved his role as a Godfather to his niece, Annie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rollin and Joyce Gausmann; brother, Dan; and sister, Audrey.

A celebration of life will be held at a time yet to be determined. In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Ron’s memory to West Madison Area Special Olympics (WMASO) or Red Lightning Special Olympics (SOWI).

Remember to smile today and give someone you love a big hug.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Ronald Lee Gausmann

October 15, 1968 - May 29, 2024

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