Ronald E. Abney, age 68, of Two Rivers, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center–Appleton.
Ron was born on September 26, 1957, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late Raymond and Helen (Daniel) Abney. He graduated from Lakeview–Fort Oglethorpe High School with the Class of 1975 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Management from the University of Tennessee.
Ron began his career at Collegedale Casework in Georgia before relocating to Two Rivers, where he worked for Hamilton Industries, Haldeman Homme, and Pribek and Associates. Never one to slow down, Ron remained active well into retirement, working at Ace Hardware and Bradford Systems — staying busy, connected, and helpful to those around him.
On November 28, 2003, Ron married the love of his life, Dee, in Rossville, Georgia. Together they built a life rooted in service, faith, family, and community. Ron was deeply involved as a volunteer, serving as a Relay for Life Director with the American Cancer Society and contributing his time and leadership to the Manitowoc Lions Club, N.E.W. Conservatives Inc. of Two Rivers, the Manitowoc GOP, and other organizations close to his heart.
Ron lived by the principle of being a “good neighbor.” He was known for being always willing to help others without ever asking for anything in return — whether through his time, his talents, or a quiet act of kindness. A man of deep faith, Ron trusted God completely and found strength and guidance in the Bible, which he studied and cherished. His generosity, humility, and steady presence left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Ron is survived by his wife of 22 years, Dee; his children, Scott (Lindsay) Abney, Justin (Erica) Abney, Tom (Shawna) Gavin, and Sabrina (Evan Center) Abney; his grandchildren, Lily, Thomas, Crew, Beau, and Juniper; his sister, Donna (Gene) Wooten; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Helen Abney.
A Life Celebration Social for family and friends will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center, 620 North Water Street, Manitowoc, located on the south property of Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Cremation has taken place at Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel. Online condolences may be shared at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ron’s name are appreciated and will be used to benefit organizations that were important to him.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair Streets, is assisting the family with arrangements.
