BOONE, Iowa—Ronald Vernon Herrick, 79, of Boone, passed away Monday, February 5, 2024, at the Boone County Hospital.
Ron was born August 29, 1944, the son of Harold and Bernice (Cromwell) Herrick. He grew up in Jordan and graduated from United Community School in 1962. Ron worked for a short time in Webster City, before starting his career at the Boone County Hospital.
Ron was united in marriage to Karen Chambers in October 1963, and to this union three children were born: Toni, Troy, and Tracey. After 15 years, the couple divorced.
In 1965, Ron started his 30 plus year career at the Boone County Hospital, first as an EMT then as one of the first groups of paramedics in the state. Then, as an orderly until his retirement.
Ron found the love of his life, Patricia Keough and they were united in marriage on July 12, 1986 and gained another daughter, Laura.
Ron laid claim to being a “cesspool of worthless information”, as well as a “jack of all trades and master of none”. He enjoyed going to camp, reading, and movies. Ron was a Star Wars and Lord of the Rings enthusiast. He loved spending time outdoors and dabbled in woodworking, making walking sticks with wood he found on his hikes.
Ron especially loved spending time with his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ron and Pat had many beloved fur babies over the years. Most recently, his beloved Bella.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents; son, Troy Herrick; and brother, Earl Herrick.
Ron is survived by his wife of 37 years, Patricia Herrick of Boone; three daughters, Toni (Reggie Dean) Herrick of Boone, Tracey (Chris) Cayer of Phoenix, AZ, Laura (Brett) Blackburn of Boone; seven grandchildren, Sierra (Mark Williams) Owen, Holli Herrick, Nolan Herrick, Quinn Cayer, Devon (Solena) Blackburn, Lucas Blackburn and Brittney Blackburn; five great-grandchildren, Cashten, Odin, Jaxton, Marcie, and Percy; and several nieces and nephews.
“Darkness must pass; a new day will come, and when the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer.” J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel at Sixth and Marshall Street in Boone. Online condolences may be left to Ron’s family at www.schroedermemorialchapel.com
