Bloomington, MN - Ronald Walter Schlenker, Sr.

July 31, 1935 - May 18, 2025

Ronald Walter Schlenker, Sr., 89, of Bloomington, MN, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025. Born on July 31, 1935, in Buffalo, NY, Ron was a devoted father, grandfather, and friend whose warmth, generosity, and zest for life touched everyone who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Schlenker, and his mother, Virginia (Frank) Textor. He is lovingly remembered by his children: Ronald Schlenker, Jr. (Nancy), Cindy Gowan (Randy), and Nancy Lauderdale (Scott), as well as his former wife and dear friend, Sharon Schlenker. Ron was a proud grandfather to Anika, Alec, and Jessica Schlenker; Alyssa Gowan; Alexa and Katie Hanson; and step-grandfather to Patrick and Ellie Lauderdale.

Ron grew up in Buffalo, NY, and graduated from the University at Buffalo, where he played on the basketball team. After college, he served in the United States Army. His professional life began at Spaulding Fiber in Buffalo, which eventually led him to sales career in Minneapolis, MN—a move that would change the course of his life. There, he met Sharon, and for over 45 years, they ran a successful manufacturer's representative firm, Schlenker & Associates.

In retirement, Ron split his time between Excelsior, MN, and Naples, FL. He found joy on the water, whether boating on Lake Minnetonka, the St. Croix River, or the Gulf of Mexico. His boats were often filled with the laughter of family and friends, as he loved nothing more than entertaining and sharing good times with others.

Ron was affectionately known as "The Ronster"—a nickname that captured his infectious energy, magnetic personality, and ever-present smile. To know Ron was to feel included. His gift was making people feel seen, heard, and welcomed, whether you'd known him for years or had just met.

He was, without a doubt, the life of the party—full of charm and a boundless love for those around him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those lucky enough to have shared in his journey.

Rest in peace, Dad and Grandpa. We love you deeply and will miss you always.

A Celebration of Life will be held on what would have been his 90th birthday, July 31, 2025, at Maynard's Restaurant in Excelsior, MN, starting at 4:00 p.m. Please join us in honoring and celebrating an incredible life well lived.