Ronald Francis Gonka

Ronald Francis “Ron” Gonka, 82, of Sugar Grove, Il., formerly of Itasca, Il., passed away on Friday, March 5, 2021 surrounded in prayer by his family.  Ron was born on March 1, 1939, in Chicago, IL., the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (nee. Siewierski) Gonka.  He was united in marriage to Elizabeth Mary Grzeszkowiak on May 27, 1961 in Chicago, IL.

He served as a flight mechanic in the United States Air Force, and was then employed by The People’s Gas Company until retirement.  He is especially remembered for his beautiful blue eyes and ability to lighten a room with his smile. He constantly lifted up those around him with his compliments, generosity, and contagious sense of humor. He was a jack of all trades and shared his DIY skills and practicality with each of his children.  Ron always prioritized the needs of others before himself and had unconditional love for his sweet dog, Schatzi.

Ron was the loving husband and dance partner of Elizabeth (Grzeszkowiak) for 60 years, whom he swept off her feet in the 5th grade. He was a devoted father to Vince (late Sandy), Marla (Mark Barthel), and Joelle (Christian Tolentino). He was preceded in death by his brother Norbert (Carol) and is survived by his sister Arlene (late Marion) Bartys. He is further survived by grandchildren Alec (Kori), Ashley (Ryan Morgan), and Andrew (Lindsey) Barthel, Shane and Brandon Gonka, Ty, Elizabeth, Paxton, and Bennett Tolentino, and great-grandchildren Brooklynn and Morgan Barthel and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 2300 Main St., Batavia, Il. 60510.  Interment will be held privately at a later date.  Moss Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, face covering is required, and we highly encourage physical distancing. We also advise against physical condolences. If you are experiencing any symptoms or are not feeling well, please refrain from visiting and express your sympathies to the family at a later time.  Sadly there will be no gathering after Mass. 

For those that wish to attend the funeral virtually, the Mass will be streamed live on the Holy Cross Catholic Church website, https://www.holycross-batavia.org/.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Ronald’s name may be directed to The Wounded Warriors Project, https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate. For additional information please contact Moss Family Funeral Home at (630) 879-7900 or www.mossfuneral.com.