Ronald “Ron” “Boone” Welnetz, 70, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, following a short but courageous battle with cancer.
Born on February 28, 1956, in San Francisco, California, Ron spent the majority of his life in Antigo, Wisconsin, where he built a life centered on family, friendship, and community. Known affectionately as “Boone” to many, Ron was larger than life. He brought the party wherever he went, filling every room with laughter, charisma, and unforgettable stories. His natural ability to strike up a conversation with anyone and make people feel welcome left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Ron spent much of his career as a real estate broker, a profession that suited his outgoing personality and genuine love of people. He was generous, hospitable, and always willing to lend a helping hand or share a good story. His generosity and commitment to others were evident through his work with Absolute Realtors, where he organized the Toys for Tots campaign to ensure that every child had presents to open on Christmas morning.
He had a deep appreciation for travel and adventure. Some of his favorite destinations included Florida, Punta Cana, Aruba, and his beloved Germany. Proud of his German heritage, Ron cherished his roots and maintained connections with family overseas.
Ron had many passions throughout his life. He loved racing, whether following Parker Retzlaff's NASCAR career (a love he shared with his good friends Clayton and Janine) or short-course off-road racing. He enjoyed the outdoors and could often be found fishing, boating, hunting, or gardening. He also had a passion for woodworking and tinkering in his workshop. He was an avid billiards player and treasured the camaraderie and friendly competition that came with the game.
Above all else, Ron’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. Nothing meant more to him than being surrounded by those he loved. His legacy lives on through the countless memories, traditions, stories, and laughter he shared with family and friends.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Annemarie and Thomas Welnetz; father and mother-in-law, Lanny and Linda Lafferty; and a sister, Jennifer, who died only a few days after birth.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Laurie; his sons, Christopher (Britt) and Kirk (Ashley); and his daughters, Cami (Robert), Khala (Austin), and Chandi (Jeff). He is also survived by his siblings, Robert, Randy (Kay), Sandra, and Timothy (Bonnie); many cherished grandchildren, Ivy, Thomas, Finn, Nolan, Liam, Gavin, Hunter (Ashley), Nevin, Dane, Lola, Henry, Mabel, Tate, and Boone; and his first great-grandchild on the way.
Though he will be deeply missed, Ron’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His warmth, humor, generosity, and zest for life will never be forgotten.
A wake will be held at the Bradley Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 30, from 3 to 6 p.m., followed by a prayer service.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 18, from noon to 6 p.m. at Sunset View Resort and Tavern at Post Lake, where you can share a "Prost" in honor of Boone.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Antigo Lions Club, P.O. Box 361 Antigo, WI 54409.
