Ronald D. “Ronnie” Parker, 74, of Fort Madison, Iowa, formerly of Van Buren County, passed away at 5:25 a.m. Thursday, November 27, 2025 at the Madison in Fort Madison, Iowa.
He was born on October 26,1951 in Fort Madison, Iowa, the son of Louie and Bessie (Winters) Parker. On May 9, 1971 he married Carolyn Rains in Birmingham, Iowa, they later divorced. On February 15, 1997 he married Kimberley Vickers in Bonaparte, Iowa.
Survivors include his wife Kim of Fort Madison, Iowa; four children: Lesa (Brian) Prevo of Bloomfield, Iowa, Amanda Lyons of Bloomfield, Iowa, Chris (Jamie) Scott of Mansfield, Texas, and Amanda (Jody) Dodson of West Point, Iowa; five grandchildren: Jaden Prevo, Brock Prevo, Ashton Lyons, Aiden Lyons, and Bailey Dodson; one great-grandchild Lennox Lyons; sister Bev (Dan) Medaris; and brother Rick (Lori) Parker. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and two sisters.
Ron was a 1969 graduate of Harmony High School. He owned and operated Milton Locker from 1977 to 1987, he then joined Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office, where he served as Deputy for ten years, he was then elected Sheriff and retired in 2007. Ron served in the United States Army Reserves, Milton City Council, and Milton Fire Department and first responders. He founded the neighborhood watch program in Milton. He enjoyed fishing, going to yard sales, restoring cars, camping, gardening, canning, and caning chairs.
His body has been entrusted to the crematory of Schmitz Funeral Home for cremation. A visitation will be held from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Schmitz Funeral Home in Donnellson, where the family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Schmitz Funeral Home in Donnellson, Iowa with Reverend Earl Beal officiating. Burial will be held at a later date. A memorial has been established in his memory for Bonaparte Cemetery Association. Schmitz Funeral Home of Donnellson is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com.
