Thief River Falls – Ronald Pilcher, 78, of Thief River Falls, died on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at the Villa St. Vincent in Crookston.
On November 8, 1947, Ronald was born to John and Lucille (Ehlers) Pilcher in Farmington. He attended school in Farmington, graduating from High School in 1965. He attended mechanic school in St. Paul and purchased a service station in Farmington. On August 2, 1969, Ron and Carole were united in marriage at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Thief River Falls. He served in the Minnesota National Guard from 1968 to 1971.
In 1976, they sold the business and moved to Thief River Falls. Ron worked at Northern Motors until 1980. Ron worked at Bridgeman’s, later known as Dean Foods, until he retired. Following retirement, Ron enjoyed spending more time at the family hunting cabin and the American Legion.
In his early years, Ron enjoyed playing softball for various leagues in Farmington and Thief River Falls. Ron was an avid Vikings Fan, even when they “let him down.” He enjoyed hunting, especially deer and geese, although feathers were a hindrance to him. He appreciated spending time with family and friends. Ron also enjoyed fishing at Lake of the Woods with his family. His favorite activity was watching John Wayne movies!
Ron was a member of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He served as Commander from 2006 to 2008 for the American Legion Post 117, as well as other responsibilities including driving the “locomotive” in the parades.
Ron is survived by his children, Renae Pilcher of Warren, Jason (Stephanie Schwartz) Pilcher of Thief River Falls, and Jeremy (Katherine) Pilcher of Warren; grandchildren, Jared and Kameron Pilcher of Warren; in-laws, Rae Pilcher, Rosemount, Judy Pilcher, Farmington, Bev Pawloski, Thief River Falls, Lorraine Seaverson, Surprise, AZ, Ruby Jenson, Thief River Falls, and Roy (Julie) Seaverson, Surprise, AZ; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Carole Pilcher; daughter, Rhonda Pilcher; parents, John “Jack” and Lucille Pilcher and Lloyd and Alice Seaverson; brothers, Larry Pilcher and Steve Pilcher; in-laws, Ray Pawloski, Jerry Jenson, and John Seaverson; niece, Linda Flatland; and family friend, Tom Loyland.
Visitation was held from 5–7 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2025, with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. in the Johnson Funeral Chapel, Thief River Falls.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, Thief River Falls. Burial followed lunch at Landstad Cemetery, Thief River Falls.
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