Donovan S. Ronken

About Don

Donovan Ronken, of Baxter Minnesota, formerly of Fairbanks Alaska, a beloved father, grandfather and great grandfather, went to be with the Lord on September 5, 2023 with his four children by his side.

Donovan (Don) Sydney Ronken was born on September 21, 1936, in Spring Valley, MN. He grew up in the Shevlin and Bagley areas of northern MN. He was raised farming with his dad. Don played basketball in school and loved antique automobiles.

After graduating from Bagley High School in 1954, he worked for MNDOT and spent time in the National Guard. In 1958, Don met his wife at a street dance in Shevlin. He and Connie were married on October 8, 1960 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Debs, MN.

After their first two sons Durand and Danny were born, Don and Connie moved north to Alaska in 1964. Their one daughter, Cammi was born in Fairbanks and their family was completed when the youngest child Darin, was born. He built 3 houses by the age of 35. Don enjoyed many of the same neighbors for over 50 years. He was a fundamental part of Mountain View Subdivision.

In the summers of the early 70s, Don's travel adventures included raising the family in their motorhome as he worked on highways in remote locations of Alaska. He enjoyed traveling with his family to Minnesota to visit family and friends.

Don spent 23 years working as a civil engineer at the Department of Transportation (DOT) for the state of Alaska. During this time, he was a registered professional land surveyor, operating a motorhome rental as well as a trenching business. During his employment with DOT, he spent time traveling to villages throughout Alaska. After retiring in 1986, Don acquired a local business sweeping parking lots and removing snow. He was hard-working, honest, and a man of high integrity.

He was a member of the Pioneers of Alaska, charter member of the Sons of Norway, the Moose Lodge and involved in multiple antique automobile clubs. He participated in Golden Days parades for over 30 years. In 1978 the best float was awarded to a Viking ship constructed by the Sons of Norway. In the later years he drove a 1960 Impala and a 1924 Ford Model T, driving dignitaries. He loved researching family history and enjoyed helping others learn about their heritage.

Donovan is survived by his four children; Durand and Danny of Alaska, Cammi (Terry) Burton of Idaho, Darin Ronken of Minnesota; eight grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; a sister (Beverly) of Bagley and a brother Lewy (Donna) of Lake Park.

He was preceded in death by his wife Connie, parents (Buford and Agnes) and two sisters (Marlene and Margaret).

"Do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

memorial service

Funeral Services for Don

September 14, 2023

Landstad Free Lutheran Church 220 2nd St, Shevlin, MN 56676, USA

The burial will be at Landstad Cemetery followed by a gathering at Landstad Free Lutheran Church.

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Cease Family Funeral Home