Obituary
Ronald Lyle Pavek
Ronald Lyle Pavek of Onalaska passed away peacefully on Friday, July 31, 2026, at the Hospice Touch Serenity House in Tomah, Wisconsin, at the age of 82. Born on April 18, 1944, to Lyle and Dorothy Pavek in Whitehall, Wisconsin, Ron was an active student who enjoyed football, golf, and had a leading role in his school play. After graduating from Whitehall High School in 1962, he attended UW-Eau Claire for a year before pursuing a degree in Broadcasting and Radio at the Brown Institute in Minneapolis. Ron began his broadcasting career in 1964 as a radio announcer at WSWW in Platteville. Shortly thereafter, he moved to WKTY in La Crosse, where he would eventually spend 16 years as both a DJ and a radio advertising salesperson. It was during his time in La Crosse that he met his future wife, Patricia Wasmuth, at South Lanes Bowling Alley, where he was a league bowler. Ron and Patty were married on August 19, 1972, and shared nearly 54 wonderful years together.
Ron had several careers over his lifetime. He began as a Radio DJ, where he often dedicated songs to Patty. It was during this time that he was nicknamed, “The Round Mound Of Sound” on his talkshow. In 1980, Ron became a salesman for the G. Heileman Brewing Company, City Sales. In 2000, Ron moved to Brenengen Ford in Sparta, Wisconsin. After retiring from Brenengen in 2006, Ron worked part time in sales at Noelke Distributing from 2006-2010. A career in Sales was perfect for Ron due to his fun loving, and outgoing nature. He was a true “people person.”
Ron was an avid bowler and golfer throughout his life. He bowled in the All-Star League at South Lanes for over 50 years, racking up six 300 games, and numerous 700 series. As a golfer, Ron had a double eagle on a par 5 in Spring Green. He was involved in weekly leagues for both sports where he had many friendships, and was lovingly nicknamed, “Roundy.” He was known for his kindness, happiness and friendly nature. Despite his acting and radio history, Ron was known as a terrible singer, but that never stopped him from sharing his joy with others. Ron loved spending time with his family and was a great supporter of his children and grandchildren with their sports, and music concerts. During their retirement years, Ron and Patty purchased a home at Jellystone Park in Warrens, Wisconsin where they have had a community of friends that they enjoyed spending weekends with. Ron also loved all Wisconsin sports teams, and tried never to miss a Brewer, Badger, Packer, or Bucks game.
Ron was predeceased by his parents; and sister, Karen. He is survived by his wife, Patty; his brother, Greg (Jackie); his son, Chad; daughter, Nikki (Dave) Haworth; his grandchildren, Avery and Adelyn, as well as many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will take place at All Star Lanes and Banquet, 4735 Mormon Coulee Rd, La Crosse, WI 54601 from 1-4 pm on Sunday, August 23rd. A short tribute will be shared around 2:30 pm. A light menu, made of Ron’s favorites, and beverages will be available.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to one of the following special places:
Hospice Touch Serenity House- 601 Straw Street, Tomah, Wisconsin, 54660
Emplify Health by Gundersen Hospice- 1900 South Avenue, La Crosse, Wisconsin, 54601
WINN Incorporated (What I Need Now)- PO Box 145, La Crosse, Wisconsin, 54602- helping unsheltered people in the community.
Online condolences may be made at https://couleecremation.com/coulee-cremation-obituaries
So many great memories of an incredible neighbor. May Patty, Chad, Nikki, and family find peace and joy in their memories.
so sorry for the passing of ron. Ron was , just a plain nice guy,
and the best bowler we ever had on our team , back
in the 70s. we will miss ron rip.
Dear Patty and family, prayers for all of you as you share this intimate and difficult time.
Our love,
I’ve known Ron and Patty for about 25 years and been a co-grandparent for 18. I’ve been blessed by Ron and Patty’s kindness and friendship and always enjoyed our times together. Ron’s sweet smile and sense of humor were always in evidence. I was glad to read his obituary and learn about his life before I met him. It sounds like a busy and productive one. Also, I know he was a great dad and a wonderful grandpa. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Patty, and all your family. I pray for comfort and many good memories. Love, Alison 💙
Sorry I never had the opportunity to meet him.
Viewing the comments,I certainly know him now.
A precious life you two shared.
Quite the guy.
Feel my hug.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Enjoyed your daughter’s tribute to her Dad
We are so very sorry for you and your family’s loss. Ron was a wonderful man who will be missed by all who were blessed to have known him. May all the wonderful memories help ease your sorrows and bring you comfort. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time!
Patti, Chad, Nikki and all of Ron’s Family,
Words cannot truly describe the incredible and lasting impression that Ron made on all who knew him. His smile and laughter filled any room he was in, and the love he had for his family and friends cannot be duplicated. Cherish all of the wonderful memories! I wish you all peace at this difficult time.
Patty and Family,
Ron’s ready smile and friendly nature was always appreciated. He had such an easy way about himself and it made me feel always welcomed and comfortable. I am very sorry for your deep loss. May you feel the support of the big circle of love that surrounds you as you grieve and live on cherishing him forever.
Sorry to hear the passing of of a long time friend. Back in the day when our sons were growing up, we met many time at various activities .We would talk about our double eagles we both were lucky enough to have.
RIP Ron!
Patty, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. My prayers are with you.
Patty, Chad, Nikki, and family — I am so sorry for your loss. Ron was one of the kindest, warmest people I have known. He always conveyed care, was easy to talk to, and offered generosity and a welcoming spirit. What a wonderful guy. Sending hugs and sincere sympathy to you all. Love, Mary Beth
Patty and family,So sorry for your loss.