Ronald Stoen

Ronald “Ron” Stoen died on November 19, 2023 while recovering from Covid. Ron was born on March 31, 1937 in Spring Grove, MN to Walter and Thea (Amundsen) Stoen. He grew up on the family farm in Highlandville, IA north of Decorah. He graduated from Decorah High School in 1955. He attended Luther College in 1959 and graduated with a degree in business. While at Luther Ron met Ann Fuller. They were married on July 24, 1959.

Ron and Ann moved to Des Moines where Ron worked as an accountant for Farm Bureau. He later worked as an accountant for Thermgas, Iowa Grain and Feed, and finally with Pioneer Hi-Bred until 2000 when he retired after 27 years with the company. Ron maintained relationships with several “Pioneer People” up to his death.

Ron and Ann had two children, Tracey and Richard. Ron was active with his children’s activities throughout their school years. He was an active member of Windsor Heights Lutheran Church, and a founding member of the Johnston Kiwanis Club.

After retirement Ron became involved with Habitat for Humanity, The Merle Hay Neighborhood Association, and the Des Moines Woodworkers. Ron enjoyed fishing and taking the kids and grandkids out on the boat. His favorite hobby was woodworking. He made many beautiful pieces of furniture, countless picture frames, and many special projects for anyone who asked. In later years he made toy tractors, trucks and construction machinery. He took great joy watching his great-grandchildren play with his toys. His happiest times were having the family over and putting burgers on the grill. Ron would talk to anyone. He was generous and would do just about anything for anyone who asked.

Ron is survived by his wife Ann; children Tracey Hirst and Richard (Barb) Stoen; grandchildren Sara (Matt) Bunker, Hayley (Wesley) Mueller, Soren Hirst, Cullen Hirst, Hannah (Kory) Wieland, Katie Stoen, Jared Stoen, Emily Stoen (Joseph Cecil), Jacob Stoen (Stacie Baker), Madelyn Stoen and Jack Stoen; and great-grandchildren Ryann and Keaton Tstistinas, Joscelyn Mueller, Molly Bunker and Jordy and Theodore Wieland. He is also survived by his brothers Harold Stoen and Darrel Stoen, several nieces and nephews and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Ron’s life will be held on Wednesday March 27, 2024 at Winsdor Heights Lutheran Church at 1:00pm with visitation an hour before the service. The service will be live-streamed. Go to www.whlc.org, Online Services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Windsor Heights Lutheran Church or Johnston Kiwanis.