Ronald E. Lillie, Sr. - Wabasha

Ronald E. Lillie, Sr., 66, of Wabasha, formerly of Theilman, died Wednesday, March 14, 2012, at his home following a brief illness.

He was born May 13, 1945, in Theilman, on the Lillie family farm. He was a graduate of Wabasha High School. He married Marietta Gosse on Thanksgiving Day 1976 at the farm. Ron worked as a farmer on the family farm until selling it in 1999. The family moved to Wabasha Dec. 31, 2000.

He served in the US Army 544th Reserve Unit based in Wabasha. He enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre, and playing bingo. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Ron is survived by his wife, Marietta Lillie, Wabasha; sons, Ron Lillie, Jr., Fort Richardson, Alaska, Eddie (Molly) Lillie, Wabasha and Justin Lillie, Lake City; step-son, Cory Gosse, Wabasha; five grandchildren, Paige Gosse, Faith Gosse, Gabriella Lillie, Courtney Lillie and Teagan Lillie; niece, Emily Sue Jones, Wabasha; brothers, Bill (Mary) Petroff, Red Wing, Walt (Buni) Lillie, Fridley, Ernie (Judy) Lillie, Prescott, Wis.

He was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Claudia Lillie, his parents and one brother, John.

A funeral service will be held Monday, March 19, at 11 a.m. at Abbott Funeral Home in Wabasha, with the Rev. David Knox officiating. Interment will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Theilman.

Casket bearers will be Cory Gosse, Eddie Lillie, Justin Lillie, Bill Petroff, Ernie Lillie and Walt Lillie.

Family and friends may call at the funeral home Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and on Monday one hour before the service also at the funeral home.

The family prefers memorials.

The Abbott Funeral home in Wabasha is in charge of arrangements. www.abbottfh.com.