Obituary of Ronald Munson

Ronald William 'Bill' Munson, 73, of Isle passed away on Sunday, October 21, 2012 at his daughter's home in Cambridge. He and his twin brother, George, were born to George and Stella (Eye) Munson in Isle, Minnesota on May 25, 1939. Bill grew up on the family farm, attending school and graduating from Isle High School in 1957. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Army. Bill was a tank gunner and was stationed in Germany. He was honorably discharged after serving four years. Following his military service, he enrolled at St. Cloud State for a short time. Bill was the original Johnny Cash. He and friends picked up their guitars and entertained inmates at local prisons- St. Cloud Penitentiary being one (not Johnny's Folsom Prison). Their playing and singing lifted the guys' spirits and they did it 'just because they could.' On July 28, 1963 he was united in marriage to Kathy Sirknen in Milaca. They made their home in Minneapolis and raised three children. Bill worked nights at the Grain Belt Brewery while earning a degree in drafting at Dunwoody Institute. He would go on to a 30 year career at Bemis Company as a Design Engineer. After retiring, he moved back to Isle where he enjoyed golf and spent winters in Florida and Arizona where he also enjoyed playing golf. Bill had a life long love of the outdoors. He had many memorable hunting, fishing and camping adventures and spent his later years refining his golf game. Bill loved music, reading and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was a beloved friend whose home in Isle was a gathering place for his many friends, both new and old. Although at times he was one that did not especially look forward to social events, he was always the last to leave. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, twin brother George, and five sisters, Joyce, Joan, Donna, Karen and Julie. He will be lovingly remembered by his children Michelle and husband Barry Thomas of Cambridge, Mike Munson of Minneapolis, Kristin and husband Chris Anderson of Warrens, WI, six grandchildren Sam and Paige Thomas, Alex Munson, Joshua, Caleb and Matthew Anderson, former wife Kathy Munson of Minneapolis, special friend Susan Messick of Arizona, as well as many nieces, nephews other relatives and friends.