Ronald Hamilton Obituary

RANTOUL - Ronald C. Hamilton, 83, of Rantoul passed away peacefully, with family by his side, on Sunday (March 17, 2024) at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana.

Ron was one of 11 children born to Ardell and Edna (Mitchell) Hamilton and lived most of his childhood in Harrisburg, Ill. After high school, he served in the Army and fought in the Vietnam War and was awarded a Bronze Star. After leaving the Army, Ron settled down in Rantoul, and that is where he met his wife of 40 years, Dared Hamilton. Over the years, Ron has worked in the Chanute dining halls, Rantoul Products and, finally, as a Walmart greeter. He was always cheerful, full of conversation and never once met a stranger. Being a greeter suited his personality perfectly!

Ron was a faithful fan and loved watching the Cubs, Chicago Bulls and Illini basketball. He also loved cars, collecting baseball cards and listening to older country music.

He was preceded in death by both parents; three sisters, Dorothy Lukancic, Judy May and Rosilea Leverett; and a son, Timothy Fields.

He is survived by his wife, Dared Hamilton of Rantoul; and daughters, Susan Fields of Rantoul, Pamela Canady of Rantoul and Kimberly (Jason) Carman of Champaign. He is also survived by his brothers, Frank of Oklahoma, Paul of Missouri, Jim of Alaska and Lyndell of Alaska; and sisters, Adele of Illinois, Martha of Illinois and Pat of Illinois. He is also the proud grandfather of several grandchildren and one great-granddaughter and an uncle to many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 24, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Rantoul VFW, 675 N. Ohio Ave.

He will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts!