Ronald G. Heidbreder (78) of Altamont

Ronald Gene Heidbreder went home to his Heavenly Father on Friday, February 2nd, 2024.

Ron was spending the winter in his beloved Florida where he enjoyed many winters riding his motorcycle, visiting with friends and relishing in the sunshine. This winter, Ron sustained a broken hip and passed away while recuperating.

Ron was born July 22nd, 1945 in Effingham, IL to Clarence G. Heidbreder and Albertha M. Monat and was one of four children. Growing up, Ron loved to play outside where he met his life partner, Vivian J. Lucas when he was 10 years old. Ron and Viv were married at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Effingham, IL on July 18, 1965, sharing 58 years of marriage. They were blessed with one daughter, Angela, in 1975. He served the U.S. Army in the Third Armored Division, as a tank gunner, in Freeburg, Germany, from 1968-1970. During his tenure in the service, Ron and Viv lived in Germany where they developed a love of travel and exploring the world. Mr. Heidbreder was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Altamont; was one of the founders of Landmark Structures, Inc. of Altamont; a member and President of the Lions Club; an Advisory Board member for St. Anthony Memorial Hospital; member of the VFW and American Legion and served on the Southwestern Illinois Regional Planning Commission. Ron also spent many hours volunteering for special projects in his community. During his free time, Ron loved spending time with his friends and family while boating on Table Rock Lake in Southern MO, exploring on his motorcycle and travelling across the United States in his motorhome.

He is survived by his wife: Vivian; daughter, Dr. Angela (Dr. David) Valentine of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; sisters, Gerry Barrett of Bolivar, MO; Carol (Steve) Stumborg of Effingham, IL, and brother, Donald (Dede) Heidbreder of Thomasboro, IL; brother-in-law, Jeff (Kumcha) Lucas of Castle Rock, CO. Nieces and Nephews: Steve (Jessica) White of Winona, MN; Ben White of Oceanside, CA; Stephanie (Shane) Harrison, Scott Stumborg, and Sara (Jess) Flood of Effingham IL; Cale (Callie) Heidbreder of Gifford, IL and Carson (Clark) Juday of Thomasboro, IL and eight great nieces and nephews. Step brothers: Jerry (Kathy) Weseloh of Decatur, IL; Ron (Linda) Wesloh of Red Bud, IL; Dennis Wesloh of Denver, CO as well as many cousins and good friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother Adell Wesloh Heidbreder; nephew and godchild, Jeff Barrett; brother-in-laws: Alan Barrett, and Dr. Derrell White; sister-in-law, Sandra Lucas White and Father and Mother-in-law, Monroe and Wanita (Hawkins) Lucas.

Funeral services to celebrate Ron’s life will be held Thursday, February 8th at 11 am at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Altamont, IL with Dr. Rev. James Wright officiating. Burial will follow with Christian and Military Rites by Altamont VFW Post #7676 and American Legion Post #512 at the Arborcrest Memorial Park in Funkhouser. A visitation will be held in the evening of Wednesday, February 7th at Kull Funeral Home where friends may call from 4 – 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Ron’s name to the Lutheran Care Center or the Lions Club. The Kull Funeral Home in Altamont is entrusted with care and arrangements.