RONALD PAVEL

Ronald Joseph Pavel, 65, of Lesterville died Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital in Yankton. Memorial services were held Monday, January 8 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Lesterville. Burial was in the St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery, rural Lesterville. Peters Funeral Home of Wagner was in charge of arrangements.

Ronald J. Pavel, 65, of Lesterville, died peacefully surrounded by his family Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024.

Ron was born May 11th, 1958, in Tyndall. Growing up on the family farm outside Lesterville, Ron’s roots grew strong. He met and then married his wife of 43 years, Patty August 23rd, 1980. Together, they established their home near Lesterville, where they raised five children. They later moved back to his family farm, where he continued to farm with his son until his health deteriorated, and he moved to Tyndall. Ron left behind a legacy of hard work, family bonds, and a deep connection to the land he cherished.

Ron found immense joy in farm life, treasuring the experience of raising cattle, pigs, turkeys, chickens, ducks and sheep. He also enjoyed driving truck. The serenity of driving a semi became a cherished escape, connecting him to the land he loved and the simplicity of rural life.

Ron was known for his stoic demeanor, humility, and lovable nature. Ron was a dedicated family man, nurturing five children with unwavering love. In recent years, he devoted much of his time to his eleven grandchildren, blessing them with a wonderful Grandpa.

In his leisure time, Ron found joy in the simple things: playing cards with friends, watching cattle sales, and rescuing stray cats. His most cherished moments were those he spent fishing with his grandchildren by a local pond. The bonds he built in those tranquil moments sitting by the water reflected Ron’s deep love for his family.

Generous to the core, Ron manifested selflessness, always ready to offer a helping hand or a listening ear. His generosity knew no bounds. He was always willing to provide support, wisdom, or simple kindness to anyone who crossed his path. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, a testament to a life well-lived and a spirit that will be dearly missed.

Ron is survived by his wife, Patty Pavel; son, Michael (Kayla) Pavel of Lesterville; daughter, Dawn (Jeremy) Coudron of White Bear Lake, MN; daughter, Amanda (Brent) Bult of Tyndall; daughter Angela (Ryan) Nutter of Dellwood, MN; son Nick Pavel of Sioux Falls; sister Charlene (Phillip) Bennett of Lesterville; and 11 grandchildren: Lane, Elsie, Lillian, Clara, Piper, Lincoln, Jaden, Ellie, Emerson, Teagan and Daelyn.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Don and Lorraine Pavel; his grandparents: Adolph and Elsie Pavel, Joseph and Clara Walloch; and his father-inlaw, Vit Krcil.