Ronnie had a gift for bringing joy to everyone, even strangers. His distinctive laugh was hard not to join, and helping others was simply who he was. Ronnie’s faith was central to his life. A lifelong churchgoer and member of Emmanuel Church, he believed his purpose was to share the story of Jesus and what God had done in his life. His sobriety journey was deeply meaningful, and his church and AA families held a special place in his heart. By sharing his story, he encouraged others to find hope, embrace recovery, and grow closer to God.
Ronnie loved the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting. He also enjoyed playing cards with siblings and friends, reading his Bible, working on cars, thrifting, and gathering with loved ones. He was known for his sweet tooth and love of baking. He brought cookies to almost every AA meeting he attended.
Ronnie took pride in doing his work well and being dependable. A longtime employee of Lawrence Brothers and Walmart Distribution Center, he worked at Climco in Morrison, Illinois, at the time of his passing.
Family was his greatest joy. He loved being “Papaw,” making his grandchildren laugh, and proudly sharing his children’s and grandchildren’s accomplishments. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather who treasured his family.
He is survived by his wife, Cat Stevens, of Fulton, Illinois; his daughter, Rachel (Robert) Lund, of Castle Rock, Colorado; his son, Reese (Alisha) Stevens, of Erie, Illinois; his grandchildren, Brady, Aria, and Perry Lund, Arlo and Felix Stevens, and Lillian, Isaac, and Ruby Ohman. He is also survived by his former wife and the mother of his children, Ruth Stevens; his siblings, Barbara (Bill) Beswick, Garnett “Steve” Stevens Jr., Lisa (Darwin) Vanderlaan, and Theresa (Mary) Stevens; and their children.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his stepdaughter, Stephanie Ohman.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls. Memorial service will follow on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Emmanuel Church in Morrison.
Condolences can be shared at mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com.
