Ronald Vanblaracom

Ronald Dale VanBlaracom, most recently of Forsyth but a long-time resident of Findlay, IL passed away September 30, 2016 in Decatur Memorial Hospital with his family by his side.Funeral services will be held at 12:00 pm, Wednesday, October 5, 2016 in Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Home, Decatur. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time in the funeral home. A graveside service will be held at 3:30 pm on Wednesday at West Cemetery, Pittsfield, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Salvation Army.Ronald was born January 26, 1930 in Pittsfield, IL the son of Edmund and Ruth (Ruble) VanBlaracom. He graduated from Pittsfield High School in the class of 1947 and received a four year scholarship to Normal Teachers College. His plans to become a public school math teacher were changed after an accident temporarily left him in a wheelchair. He was accepted into and graduated from National Railroad School in Omaha, Nebraska. In 1949, he became an agent telegrapher for Wabash Railroad, retiring as a train desk supervisor for the N&W in 1990.Ronald married Frances J. Grinestaff in 1954. They had two daughters, Rhonda (Keith) Birmingham and Robin (Mark) Burgener.Always a history buff, he began collecting antiques. He especially loved American Indian artifacts, pictures, blankets and anything railroad related, especially items from the Wabash Railroad. He began selling antiques at flea markets, which led to buying the St. Mary’s Methodist Church in Findlay, IL. He and his wife opened Church Mouse Antiques in June 1973. The business thrived for over 35 years.He not only leaves his wife and daughters, but 4 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren that he adored: Matthew (Jody) Birmingham of Dunlap, IL and their children Collin, Camryn and Cayden; Aaron (April) Burgener of Decatur; Molly (Nick) Macklin of Oakley and their child Brixton; and Allison Burgener of Decatur.Ronald was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Fighting Illini. He was known for his generosity and quick wit. He will be forever missed and cherished, but will remain always in our hearts.The family would like to thank the staff of Hickory Point Christian Village. Also, the wonderful nurses of DMH and Hospice who helped in making sure he left this world with dignity, surrounded by love. "
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