Ron was born on September 9, 1944, in Sterling, the son of Stanley and Laverna (Schulte) George. He was raised in Emerson and Rock Falls and graduated from Rock Falls High School with the Class of 1962. On December 16, 1963, he married the love of his life, Carol Portner, in Sterling. Ron began his career as a machinist at R.B. & W. in Rock Falls before fulfilling his dream of owning his own business. In 1976, he opened Ron’s Automotive Machine Shop in Sterling, where he worked until his retirement, earning the respect of customers and friends for his skill, honesty, and dedication.
Ron had a lifelong passion for motorcycles, engines, classic cars, and anything fast. He was a lifetime member of District 17 American Motorcyclist Association, Rock River Riders, and the National Rifle Association. He was also a past member of the Optimist Club and served on the YMCA Board of Directors. Ron was one of several individuals who helped establish the Illinois Recreational Trails Act, which was enacted in 1997.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Carol; his daughter, Ronni (Mark) Haverland of Phoenix, Arizona; his son, Christopher (Chasity) George of Coal Valley; his grandchildren, Peyton (Weston) Buglewicz, Justin Zeigler (Sierra Rehm), Parker George (Alexis Golden), and Hudson George; his great-granddaughters, Eden and Emri Buglewicz; his brother, Roger (Pam) George of Lansdowne, Virginia; and his brother, Randy (Cathy) George of Orlando, Florida.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his son-in-law, Tracey Zeigler.
A gathering of his family and friends will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 3-7 pm at McDonald Funeral Home, 505 First Avenue in Sterling.
