Ronald E. Casas

In Loving Memory of Ronald Eugene Casas January 11, 1939 – December 10, 2024          85 Years Old

Ronald Eugene Casas, cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully in his home in Tinley Park, Illinois, on December 10, 2024, surrounded by the warmth and love of his family. Born on January 11, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, to Joseph and Aline Casas (Jette), Ronald lived a life filled with love, laughter, and boundless creativity. He shared 64 remarkable years of marriage with his roller skating partner and soulmate, Betty Lou, crafting a lifetime of treasured memories.

Ronald was a man whose resourcefulness and charm left an indelible mark on all who knew him. With an uncanny ability to transform "trash" into treasures, he was a gifted handyman who could fix anything using his trusty arsenal of glues, screws, and duct tape. His ingenuity became a hallmark of his personality, earning him admiration from friends and family alike. His favorite sanctuary was the backyard he lovingly cultivated—a place of peace, beauty, and connection with both loved ones and nature’s creatures.

One of Ronald’s proudest achievements was his remarkable transformation of his modest two-bedroom home into a warm, inviting four-bedroom haven. With an attached garage and a walk-out deck overlooking his lush garden, the house became the heart of countless family gatherings and a testament to his hard work, craftsmanship, and love for creating a welcoming space.

Ronald's sociable nature, kindness, and generosity were reflected in his deep commitment to community and service. A proud member of the Tinley Park Lions Club District 1-A, he worked tirelessly to support others, earning him a Melvin Jones Fellowship. Summers were a time of joy and togetherness as he nurtured his children and created lifelong memories as a member of the Wooden Shoe Rainmakers camping club of South Holland, Illinois. His faith played a central role in his life, and as a trustee of the First Baptist Church of Tinley Park, he shared his talents and heart with the congregation. In his earlier years, Ronald found fulfillment being active in the local Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Scout Master in the Explorers Program, inspiring young minds and teaching them lessons of adventure, leadership, and integrity.

His adventurous spirit led him to explore beautiful destinations such as Hawaii, San Diego, Utah, Colorado, Washington DC, and Florida. Yet, no matter where his travels took him, his heart always returned to his family and the home he built with love.

Ronald leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. He is survived by his adoring wife, Betty Lou; his four children, Scott (Kara), Tracy Olivares, Eric (Analisa), and Kurt (Jennifer); and his nine grandchildren, Brian Olivares (Celeste), Sierra Dickey (Jeremiah), Amber Strimel, Brandon Olivares, Kevin (Stephanie), Arianna Olivares, Adaline, Zackary Nagle, and Joshua Nagle (Emily). He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren, Olivia Strimel, Brianna Strimel, Evelyn Olivares, Jeremy Nagle, and Everlee Nagle. Ronald is lovingly remembered by his siblings, Delores Paladino, (the late Eugene), Earl, (Judy), and Colleen Hawn, and joins in eternal rest his parents, Joseph Casas and Aline Casas (Jette), his sister Marie Fenelon (Ed), and his younger brother Gary.

Ronald will forever be remembered for his humor, creativity, and tireless dedication to his family, faith, and community. His love, kindness, and resilience will remain an enduring source of inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Wake to be held at:

Maher Funeral Home

17101 71st Ave.

Tinley Park, IL 60477

Wednesday, December 18th 4PM - 9PM

Funeral to be held at:

First Baptist Church of Tinley Park

7025 W 179th Street

Tinley Park, IL 60477

Thursday, December 19th @ 10AM

Celebration of Life Lunch

Papa Joe's Italian Restaurant

14459 LaGrange Road

Orland Park, IL 60462

Thursday, December 19th @ 12PM

In lieu of flower please consider a gift offering to the First Baptist Church of Tinley Park located at 7025 179th Street, Tinley Park, IL 60477.  A gift offering can be given via cash or check - all checks can be made out to ' First Baptist Church of Tinley Park .' First Baptist Church of Tinley Park meant a great deal to Ronald Casas - please consider this donation in honor of Ronald Casas.