Ronald J. Hempfer

Ronald Hempfer, age 69, of Rib Mountain and Fort Myers, Florida passed away peacefully on January 7, 2024 in Cape Coral, Florida while in the care of Hope Hospice.

Ron was born June 27, 1954 in Wausau to the late Edwin and Clara (Greene) Hempfer. After graduating from Wausau West High School in 1972, Ron worked for Drott/JI Case as a sub-assembler. He was also a very talented woodworker with an eye for perfection. He went on to start his own business, Woodstock, doing both residential and commercial custom cabinetry. His woodworking skills were also utilized at various other places within the community including Piper Products, where he retired from in 2016.

Ron had a passion for music and was a self-taught drummer. He loved country rock music, and ironically the first band he played in during the 70’s was named Rocking Country. He then helped form the band Frontier with his brother Bob and two close friends. Frontier was very well-known, with continuous bookings at various establishments, weddings, private parties, and community events throughout central Wisconsin. Ron retired from the band in the early 80’s. 

Ron’s daughter Callie was born in May of 1989. She was Ron’s whole world and he loved being a father. His granddaughter, Everly, was born in September of 2019 and being a grandpa brought him so much joy. He especially loved FaceTime calls with Everly when he was spending time at his condo in Fort Myers.

While in Florida, he loved spending time with friends from Wisconsin, and met many new people that became very close friends as well. Retirement allowed him to avoid the cold winters by spending additional time in Fort Myers enjoying the warm weather, sunshine, and the palm trees he loved so much. 

Survivors include his daughter Callie (Justin) Mayer of Arbor Vitae, granddaughter, Everly, sister Sandy (Eddie) Cveykus of Kronenwetter, nieces, Beth and Shanna, nephew, Brent (Courtney), great-nieces, Tianna, Sophia, and Clara, and great-nephews, Tayson, Carson, and Lincoln. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Clara Hempfer, and his brother Bob Hempfer. 

Funeral Service will be held on Thursday January 18, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Helke Funeral Home (302 Spruce Street, Wausau WI 54401) Pastor Mike Huff will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Wednesday January 17, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on Thursday January 18, 2024 from 10:00 AM until the hour of Service At Helke Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family or to the COPD Foundation (COPDfoundation.org) at 3300 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Miami FL 33134. 

Ron’s generous heart and endless jokes that always brought smiles and laughter to others, will always be remembered.