CROSS PLAINS - Ronald H. Jacobek, age 88, of Cross Plains, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 13, 2026, at UW Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. He was born on November 16, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Harry and Stephany (Onak) Jacobek.

Ron graduated from Foreman High School in Chicago. He met Darlene Swansen (on a blind date!) and they were married on June 9, 1963. They had 62 happy years together and were blessed with two children.

Ron was a member of the U.S. Air Force reserves. He worked for The Xerox Corporation for more than 40 years in the Chicagoland area before retiring to Wisconsin. He was an active member of the Illinois Live Steamers and S-Gauge Wisconsin model train clubs and took great joy in collecting, displaying, and repairing American Flyer trains. He loved machining and had a special talent for refurbishing vintage tube radios, especially Motorola models. Ron had a great sense of humor and enjoyed old radio shows, British television shows, and had a lifelong passion for tinkering with cars.

Ron is survived by his wife, Darlene; daughter, Kristi (Jonathan) Thom; son, Steven (Jeanne) Jacobek; four grandchildren; brother, James Jacobek; and three nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister-in-law, Nancy (Madden) Jacobek.

In keeping with Ron’s wishes, no services will be held. Memorials may be made to the American Red Cross. In lieu of a monetary donation, please consider donating blood. During his treatment for Leukemia, Ron benefitted from the generosity of blood donors.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Ronald Jacobek

November 16, 1937 - February 13, 2026

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