Ronald L. Jahnke

MADISON – Ronald Lee “Ron” Jahnke, of Madison, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026, at the age of 88. He was born on April 1, 1938, in Watertown, WI, the eldest son of Erwin and Margaret (Ullerich) Jahnke.

 After graduating from Lake Mills High School in 1956, Ron joined the U.S. Army where he was privileged to serve on the Honor Guard at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. as a ceremonial rifleman. Following his military service, he returned home in 1959 and married his high school sweetheart, Marlene Sommers. Together, they shared 67 years of marriage and built a wonderful life in southern Wisconsin, raising their son and daughter in Lake Mills and Sun Prairie, before making Middleton their home for over 35 years.

Ron built an accomplished career of 36 years at Nickles Electric, one of southern Wisconsin’s leading contractors. He advanced from Journeyman Electrician to Field Superintendent, Operations Manager, and ultimately President and Owner, a role he held for 16 years before retiring in 2004. He was very proud of the company’s work on many of Madison’s landmarks, including the Monona Terrace Convention Center and the Kohl Center. 

 Ron was dedicated to the industry serving as an active member of NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association) for 16 years which included terms as President and Governor of the Wisconsin Chapter Board of Directors. His commitment to the community also included being a founding father of the annual Holiday Fantasy in Lights display in Madison since 1989, a member of the Downtown Rotary Club of Madison since 1986, and Nakoma Golf Club member since 1985.

The greatest joys in Ron’s life were found in his family, friendships, travel, golf, poker club, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. He was an enthusiastic Green Bay Packers fan, loyal Chicago Cubs fan and a devoted supporter of UW Athletics. Badger Basketball was Ron's passion and as a long time Badger Basketball Booster Club member, he served seven years on the Board of Directors, which included terms as Treasurer and President. As a season ticket holder for Badger basketball and football, Ron attended countless games and also enjoyed following the men’s basketball team on many road games with family and friends, including a tournament trip to Italy and all three Final Four appearances, as well as the 1994 Rose Bowl for football. 

 Ron and Marlene also shared a love of traveling the world, which included many memorable trips with family, close friends and NECA colleagues. These journeys took them on 13 cruises to Europe, South America, Caribbean Islands, Hawaii and the Panama Canal, in addition to spending many winter months in Puerto Vallarta for over 20 years. 

 Above all, the family Ron and Marlene built together was his proudest accomplishment and greatest blessing. His children and grandchildren were central to his life, and the arrival of his great-granddaughter, Callen, brought him a special new happiness. Ron had a substantial impact on their lives and he celebrated their academic, athletic, and professional accomplishments with pride. Affectionately known as “Pop,” his love of family, generosity, positivity, strong work ethic and dedication will remain a lasting influence.

 Ron is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Marlene; son, Doug (Aana) Jahnke; daughter, Susan (Craig) Marnocha; four grandchildren, Brian (Maddy) Jahnke, Laura (Kevin) Zugschwert, Brynna (Michael Blizel) Marnocha and Lindsey (Jasen) Baranowski; and one great-grandchild, Callen Baranowski. He is also survived by his brother, Russ (Sherry) Jahnke; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Nelson VanGundy, Carol (Ken) Menz, Diane (Greg) Schwartz and Ruby Sommers; as well as many nieces and nephews.

 Along with his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his sister, Kathy VanGundy; brother and sister-in-law, Lee (Mary) Jahnke; and brothers-in-law, Jerry Sommers and Glenn Sommers.

 A private family memorial service with military honors will be held at Sunset Memory Gardens Cemetery, Madison.

 The family welcomes all whose lives were touched by Ron, to a Celebration of Life at NAKOMA GOLF CLUB, 4145 Country Club Road, Madison, from 4 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026. Gather for memories, food and drink, to honor Ron’s life well-lived.

 Special thanks to UW Health Carbone Cancer Center, Dr. Julie Chang, Dr. David Jarrard, Dr. David Andes, and the many other doctors and nurses at UW Hospital/Clinics and Agrace Hospice for their outstanding care and compassion.

 In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to the UW Carbone Cancer Center or UW Men's Basketball at supportuw.org/giveto/tribute. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

 Gunderson West
Funeral & Cremation Care
7435 University Ave.
(608) 831-6761