Obituary for Ronald Nicolai

Ronald H. Nicolai, age 72, of Hebron, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday evening, March 16, 2021, at Northwestern McHenry Hospital. Ron was born September 12, 1948, in Chicago, the son of Harold and Geraldine (Simon) Nicolai. On September 4, 1971, Ron married the love of his life, Richanne Glash at St. Mary's Catholic Church in McHenry.

Ron proudly served our country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and he was presented with The Bronze Star Medal before being honorably discharged in 1971. Following his discharge from the army, Ron continued his education, graduating from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering. While his three children were in school, he contributed to the school through PTO, Booster Club, NOTES, and was an elected member of the Alden Hebron School Board. He also was a staple in the concession stand and bleachers for all sporting events. He served his community by volunteering at the Hebron Food Pantry and many other community events. Ron worked as a Prototype Manager for Baxter Healthcare for over 36 years, retiring in 2014.

In his younger years, Ron enjoyed motocross racing, boating, and camping, but more than anything, Ron loved being with his grandkids; both human and four-legged. He enjoyed babysitting, going to the museum, attending various events, fishing and his naps with the grandkids on the couch. A highlight for Ron was playing Santa at the family's annual Santa parties. Ron is loved by many and will be sorely missed.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of almost fifty years, Richanne Nicolai; children: Jason (Amanda) Nicolai of Woodstock, Jodi (Erik) Nicolai Johnson of Hartland, WI, and Jamie (Rachel) Nicolai of Harvard; and grandsons: Reid, Mason, Tate, Austin, and Ty Nicolai, and Rory Johnson. He is further survived by his siblings: Lorraine Foreman, Ruth Nicolai, Annette Nicolai, Christine (Steve) Baroni, Edward (Debbie) Nicolai, and Donna (Reese) Dawson; sisters-in-law: Wileen (Dave) Peterson and Tina (Patrick) Martin; and many nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Harold and Geraldine Nicolai, Ron was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Richard and Jeanette Glash; sister, Marion Doyle; brother and sister-in-law, Dean and Kim Glash; and brother-in-law, Ronald Pawelczak.

A Visitation for Ron will be held from 1-5 P.M. on Saturday, March 20, 2021, at Colonial Funeral Home, 591 Ridgeview Drive, McHenry. Military Honors will be conducted at 4 P.M. in the funeral home chapel, followed by the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin and/or "Make-A-Wish" Foundation would be greatly appreciated.

In following with the current Illinois Covid 19 mandate, only 50 people will be allowed in the funeral home at a single time and all guests must wear a mask or face covering prior to entering the building.

For more information, please call 815-385-0063 or visit www.colonialmchenry.com