Ronald M. Franiak

Ronald M. Franiak, Roscoe, IL, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, and sports enthusiast, passed away on October 24, 2024. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of Theodore Franiak and Christine Franiak (née Kapala). Ronald is survived by his wife, Bonnie, who stated that she saw potential in him. They were married for 61 years. A proud alumnus of Mendel Catholic High School in Chicago, Ronald attended the College of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, after spotting a brochure in his high school guidance office featuring a beautiful baseball diamond. Originally planning to become a dentist, Ronald shifted to a career in education when the demands of dental courses conflicted with his baseball schedule. He graduated with a B.S. in Biology and Education and later earned his M.S. in Counseling from Whitewater University. An outstanding athlete, Ronald’s talent led him to tryouts with the Minnesota Twins, Cincinnati Reds, and Houston Astros. He spent over 50 years in education within the Harlem School District, teaching Biology and eventually as a Guidance Counselor, and where he coached baseball, football, golf, and girls’ basketball, inspiring countless students.

Ronald also served as a respected sports official, umpiring local high school baseball games, officiating girls’ college basketball, and refereeing Division III college football. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Ronald worked Sundays at Soldier Field as a field liaison, reporting game events from the Chicago Bears’ field to the Press Box. He retired from this role in 1984, just in time to watch the Bears win Super Bowl XX from the comfort of his living room. A lifelong Chicago White Sox fan, Ronald remained loyal to his team through countless seasons and often skipped school in his youth to catch games with friends. After retiring from the Harlem School District, Ronald continued to guide young people at RESA Middle School, and helped with freshmen career guidance at Auburn High School, East High School, and for many years at Boylan Catholic High School, all in Rockford, Illinois. 

Ronald found great joy in golfing, particularly on local courses like Ledges and Atwood, as well as on the famed courses of the American Club in Kohler, Wisconsin, and the scenic greens of Hilton Head, South Carolina. His greatest happiness, however, came from time spent with his grandchildren, who adored their “Papa.” Ronald also shared a love of travel with Bonnie, delighting in bakery visits, snacks when “Nana” wasn’t looking, and a fine cigar—often setting one aside on his car bumper or in a wall niche to savor later. He was incredibly funny, often making the family collectively eye-roll at his dad jokes, which brought joy and laughter to all. 

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Linda Razbadouski (UW Health System), Dr. James Runo (UW Madison), and the Swedish American 3rd-floor nursing and physician staff at the Heart Hospital for their exceptional care and support during Ronald’s illness. They also extend their thanks to the Mercy Home Health staff for their love, support, and special friendship, including Sarah, Karin, and Giselle. 

As requested by Ron, a private family celebration of life will take place at a later date. He would wish for all who knew him to go to a baseball game of their choice next spring, order a hot dog and some peanuts, raise a beer in his memory, and yell, “Play ball!” Memorials, tributes, and dedications in Ron's name may be made to the Rockford Boys and Girls Club Carlson Unit or to the Rockford Park District, Barb and Lloyd McWilliams Youth Golf Fund. 

He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Jennifer (David) Stark and Elizabeth Peterson; his grandchildren, Gretchen, Ethan, and Sarah Peterson (Evan Keister); his sister, Theodora (George) Shackleton; and his special friend and honorary third daughter, Denise Pape. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews. Known for his warmth, humor, and joy in working with kids, Ronald’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched as an educator, coach, and friend. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends but remembered always for being such a great guy. 

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