Ron Tanner

Ron Tanner

December 17, 1943 – June 8, 2025

Ron Tanner, a devoted husband, father, proud grandfather, and spirited friend to many, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, in St. Charles, Missouri. He was 81 years old.

Ron simply loved being around people. Whether he was telling a story, cracking a joke, or launching into one of his classic “…and he says…” tales, his presence brought warmth and laughter wherever he went. He never met a stranger—just friends he hadn’t talked to yet.

His life was filled with joy and good times: kickball, wiffleball, and frisbee in the street; mopeds and go-karts with the neighborhood crew; and a legendary unpaid pizza debt to Greg that stretched on for nearly 40 years. One of his greatest passions was roller-skating at Funworld and Coachlight, where he made countless lifelong friends. He was also a devoted fan of the St. Louis Blues and the Cardinals, cheering with heart and loyalty every season.

Ron especially loved spending time with his grandchildren—watching them play soccer, bowl, and compete in softball. He was a regular at their games and a beloved, familiar face at the bowling alley, where his absence will be deeply felt by all the athletes, families, and friends involved in Special Olympics.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Christine Tanner; his three sons, Kevin Fischer (Melissa), Steven Fischer (Kelli), and Sean Tanner (Michelle); grandchildren Courtney, Keenian, Leiah, Brenden, Kaitlyn, Alyssa, Ryan, and Caleb; and great-grandchildren Lillian, Kairi, Vincent, Archer, Sawyer, and Mallory. He also shared a special fatherly bond with Ashley, his granddaughter who was raised in the family home and remained a loving presence throughout his life, as well as Kolten, his great-grandson, whom he and Christine helped raise.

In addition to his biological and chosen family, Ron and Christine opened their home and hearts as adoptive and foster parents to others over the years. Though life led some down different paths, his role as a father was one he embraced with generosity and commitment.

A celebration of Ron’s life was held on June 14, 2025, where stories, laughter, and love were shared in his memory—just the way he would have wanted.

In honor of Ron, the family encourages everyone to share a story, cheer for your team, support Special Olympics, or simply enjoy time with the people around you—because that’s what he valued most.