Mr. Ronald O. Decker

Ronald O. “Ron” Decker, 76, of Bluffton went to be with his Lord at 12:15 p.m. on Tuesday, February 05, 2013. Ron was born in Wells County, Indiana on May 10, 1936 to Dale and Myrtle (Brown) Decker and they preceded him in death. Ron married Jane A. (Faulkner) on December 5, 1992 in Bluffton and she survives. Ron graduated from Lancaster High School in 1954. He was a U.S. Army Veteran having served as a Paratrooper and MP. He served our country in Panama and Germany. Following his military service, he attended Franklin College where he earned a B.A. degree in elementary education. Later he earned a Masters degree from Ball State University. His career included teaching in Arizona, Clarksville, and Bluffton. He served both as a teacher and principal in Clarksville and Bluffton area schools including Columbian, Poplar Grove and Bluffton’s Community Christian School. He also served several years in the Superintendent’s office. Ron retired from his teaching career to pursue his hobbies. He loved fishing, playing cards, woodworking, and attending auctions. He was an active member of the Markle Church of Christ. He was also active in the community and was a former member of the VFW, American Legion, and bowling leagues. Despite how bad he felt or how bad things were going, Ron always had a smile and a comment that would make you laugh. You always felt better after having been with Ron. Other survivors include two sons, Jon (Jari) Decker of Midland, Texas, Mike (Sherry) Decker of Fort Wayne, a daughter, Nancy Staggs of Odessa, Texas, a step-son, Andrew “Andy” Ellis of Bluffton, a step-daughter, Rebecca “Becky” Ellis of Brooklyn, New York, two brothers, Dean (Carol) Decker of Richmond, Virginia, Don (Mary) Decker of Holland, Ohio, a sister, Rinda Robbins of San Diego, California, eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John David Decker. Calling hours are 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, February 8, 2013 at Thoma/Rich, Chaney & Lemler Funeral Home. A service celebrating Ron’s life will be at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home with Pastor Greg Comp and Dr. Bryson Bell officiating. Burial will be at Elm Grove Cemetery with full military honors by American Legion Post #111 and the United States Army Honor Guard. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.

Mr. Ronald O. Decker

May 10, 1936 - February 5, 2013