Ronald K. Dornink

Ronald K. Dornink, 92, of Freeport IL, passed away on January 3rd surrounded by family. He was born on September 27, 1933 in Buckeye Township at his grandparent’s home. He was the son of Galen and Lera (Griffen) Dornink. Ronald was married to Dona (Meyer) on August 28, 1954.

Ronald graduated from Dakota High School in 1951. In high school he earned the honor of being a State Farmer in FFA. He served on the Dakota School Board for 8 years, was the Band Boosters President for two years. Ron and Dona were long time members of the Illinois and International Flying Farmers. Ron proudly served in the United States Army from 1954-1956, stationed at Ft Knox in Kentucky, Germany and Ft Carson in Colorado Springs.Ron was a life-long farmer in Lancaster Township. In 1966 he started Ron Dornink Flying Service, where he taught many local people to fly. He was a corporate pilot for Freeport/Rockford Blacktop and Lyle King and had his own Charter Service. He was also a realtor for several years.He loved spending time with his family traveling, skiing in Colorado, and spending time at their Apple Canyon Lake home. He and Dona spent many winters in SW Florida. Ron is survived by his wife, Dona, of 71 years, his children: Debra (Mike) DiGvonni, Sally Scaman and Steve (Suzie) Dornink, also his grandchildren Daniel DiGvonni, Megan (Joe) Kerchner, Rachel (Colin) Baker, Samuel (Bailey) Scaman, Evan (Lauren) Dornink and 10 great grandchildren, his sister-in-law Colleen Dornink, and many nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister-in-laws: Francis and Karlene Dornink, Richard Dornink, Darryl and Ruth Dornink, and grandson Erik Dornink.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to one of the following organizations: FHN Hospice, DOE (Dakota Opportunities in Education), Winneshiek Church. A private service will be held.