We are sad to announce the passing of Ronald A. Spillane of East Dubuque, IL on January 24, 2024. Ron died at the age of 82, following a short illness. The loss of his presence leaves a huge void, and he will be forever missed. The funeral mass will be held at 11:30 AM, Saturday, February 3, 2024, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Galena where friends may call after 9:30 AM until the time of mass. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting in the services. Ron was born to Vincent and Alberta Spillane on December 26, 1941, in Hazel Green.  After graduating from Galena High School, he married Rose Tranel, his teenage sweetheart. He was a loving husband of 61 years to Rose and dedicated himself to caring for her during the last years they shared. Ron led a full life, enjoying time with his family and many hobbies and activities. He was an accomplished welder and woodworker, a dominating pitcher, and an avid outdoorsman. He never met a meat he couldn’t smoke. Always surrounded by family and friends, he enjoyed sharing his passions with those around him. Everyone who knew him could always count on a warm welcome and a cold beer. Ron worked as a welder, an upholsterer, and a labor leader, but spent most of his professional life as the Director of the Dubuque United Way. He is survived by his children Mike (Lori) of Galena, Greg (Susan) of Cary, IL, and Brian (Becky) of East Dubuque, grandchildren Austin, Emily (Joe) Pagura, Quinn, Cameron, Ellie, Allison, and sisters Rosemary Crawford, Jean Maxwell, and Diane (Ed) Holland. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, wife Rose, first-born son Dave, and his brothers Bob “RJ”, Jim, Barry, and Joe. Special thanks for the gentle, attentive care given by the wonderful teams from Mercy Hospital, Galena Senior Care, and Hospice of Dubuque. The family kindly requests any donations be made in his honor to Hospice of Dubuque or the United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States.