Ronnie Meister

Madison/New Glarus

Ronnie Gene Meister was born in Monroe, WI on June 29, 1947. He was the son of Eugene and Gladys (Yager) Meister. Ron started life on the farm in Primrose Township just north of New Glarus and at the age of 5 moved to Madison. He attended Sherman school where he met his future wife in kindergarten. They became sweethearts and graduated from East High in 1965. On February 26, 1966, Ronnie and Cynthia began their 55-year marriage. He was a veteran of the Wisconsin Air National Guard and served for 8 years.

Ronnie played baseball from the time he was able to pickup a ball.  He was an umpire and football/basketball referee. This included the W.I.A.A. State Baseball Championships, Big Ten women’s softball and I.S.C. World Softball Championships. In 1995, Ron was awarded Wisconsin Baseball Coaches Association Umpire of the Year.

“Let’s face it, umpiring is not an easy or happy way to make a living.  In the abuse they suffer, and the pay they get for it, you see an imbalance that can only be explained by their need to stay close to a game they can’t resist.” - Bob Uecker

Some of his other passions included auto racing, golf and fishing.  However, the biggest joy of his life was spending time with his family.

Ron was an entrepreneur.  He owned milk trucks, semis, medical vans and motor coaches. He was an American Trucker.

Ron is survived by his wife, Cindy, his children Todd of Sun Prairie, Tracy (Jim) Cedarwall of Waterloo and Troy (Stephanie) of Sun Prairie.  His grandchildren Garrett of Cottage Grove, Gabriel of Waterloo and Amelia of Sun Prairie. His sisters Rebecca (Kenneth) Frietag of Barneveld, Gail Montague of Madison and Susan Montague (Rob Sommer) of Davison, NC. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law, Lois Smith, his grandparents, and sister, Janet Montague.

The family would like to thank the Madison Fire Department and the staff at St. Mary’s Emergency Department for their life saving efforts.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 7, 2021, from 4-7 p.m. with a service following at 7:00 PM Cress Funeral Home, 3325 E. Washington, Madison.  Ron was a very informal person.  Please feel free to dress casually.  Wear your favorite golf polo, baseball shirt, whatever.  Look like you are stopping by the house for a visit.  That is the way he would want it.  Father Jay Poster will be officiating.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3325 E. Washington Ave.

Madison (608) 249-6666