Ronald D. Taber

Ronald Dean Taber, 88, of Sheldon, passed away peacefully at home on June 20, 2026. Today we remember a man who lived a full and meaningful life.

Ron was born on October 31, 1937, in Mondovi, Wisconsin, to Fern and Florence (Fairchild) Taber, who preceded him in death. He spent most of his life in Sheldon, where he built a life centered on family, farming, community involvement, and friendship.

On December 28, 1989, Ron married Joyce Williams, in Sheldon. Together they shared many years of love, companionship, and adventure.

Ron was an active member of the Sheldon Co-op Board. He enjoyed participating in numerous community activities and organizations, including managing softball-farmers the Country Dusters and Ron's Outlaws. An avid horseshoe player, Ron was also well known as the host of the Miller Dam Campground for 24 years and spent 25 winters in Arizona with the Snowbirds community.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Ron enjoyed supporting and watching young kids play baseball and other sports. He was also known for his love of travel and cherished the many friendships he made throughout his life. His beloved basset hound was a constant companion over the years.

He was a devoted husband, a hardworking dairy farmer, and someone who never forgot the value of dedication and community. Farming wasn’t just his livelihood—it was a way of life. Through long days and early mornings, he built a life centered on family, hard work, and helping others.

When he wasn’t working, you could often find him cheering on his beloved Green Bay Packers or rooting for the New York Yankees. He celebrated their victories and endured their losses with the loyalty only a true fan can understand.

Alongside his wife, he spent 24 years serving as camp hosts at Miller Dam Campground, welcoming visitors and creating lasting friendships. It was a role that perfectly reflected who he was—someone who enjoyed people, conversation, and making others feel at home.

Music was another great love in his life. During his farming years, many musicians found their way to his home. The house would come alive with songs, stories, laughter, and friendship, often continuing into the wee hours of the morning. Those nights weren’t just about music; they were about connection, generosity, and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

His legacy is found not only in the work he did, but in the lives he touched, the friendships he built, and the joy he shared. We will remember his dedication, his hospitality, his love of music, and the countless moments that made him who he was.

Though we will miss him deeply, we are grateful for the time we had with him and the memories that will continue to fill our hearts—much like the music that once filled his home.

Ron is survived by his wife, Joyce; his children, Rory Dean Taber, Rusty James Taber (Jill), Stacy Williams, Ronda Dawn Taber (Ben), and Theresa Gulish; 18 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren and 2 sisters, Diane Strutz (Dalue) of Antigo and Cheryl Winchel of Arnold.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Rita Mae Taber; and a sister, Marilyn Scholl (Bob).

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Sheldon Fairgrounds on Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., where family and friends are invited to gather to honor Ron's life.

A complete obituary will also be published in the Ladysmith News.