Ronald "Ronnie" Petrus, age 73, passed away peacefully in Georgetown, Texas, surrounded by love and his adoring family, after a long and courageous battle with young-onset Alzheimer's. Ronnie lived a life marked by faith, devotion to family, and a deep love for his hometown of Skidmore, Texas—a place he cherished more than anywhere else on earth.

Born to Julius Petrus Sr. and Pat Petrus, Ronnie was the fourth of six children. He was a proud graduate of Skidmore High School and went on to earn a degree in civil engineering from Texas A&I University in Kingsville, laying the foundation for a successful career.

Ronnie owned and operated a surveying company in Beeville, Texas, for many years. His work ethic and honesty were admired by many, and his presence in the South Texas community was one of quiet strength and consistency.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Ronnie had a lifelong love of the outdoors and a strong connection to the land—a bond he shared with his father, who was also his best friend. He enjoyed hunting and fishing until he was no longer able to do so. For several years, he planted and harvested acres of watermelon and cantaloupe—an effort that reflected both his love of the land and his desire to provide healthy, nutritious food for his family. In later years, he loved organic gardening and generously shared its bounty with family and friends.

Ronnie married the love of his life, Diann Petrus. Together, they built a home grounded in love, hard work, and faith. A playful father and grandfather, Ronnie delighted in sharing his unique party tricks—dangling upside down from swing sets by his feet, wiggling his ears, and winning foot races against his wife and daughters while HE ran backwards. He was a constant presence in the lives of his children and grandchildren, often seen coaching and practicing sports with them.

Ronnie was remarkably dedicated to physical fitness. His love of sports began in childhood, when he pitched for his All-Star Little League team and was a multi-sport athlete for his beloved Bobcats. He remained active well into his later years, playing in alumni games, three-on-three basketball leagues, and softball teams—holding his own against younger, state-champion-level athletes. He was still doing thirty-seven proper toe-plank push-ups just six months before his passing. Even as Alzheimer's stole almost all his memories and abilities, one thing that remained was his strong drive to exercise, which persisted into his final month of life. It was one of the final, enduring expressions of his commitment to healthy living.

Above all, Ronnie was a devoted Christian whose faith shaped everything he did. His relationship with God was a guiding force in his life. He made the most important decision of his life at age 45, when he gave his life one-hundred percent to the Lord. From that moment on, Ronnie was ALL in and never wavered in his faith. His devotion was so steadfast that he had the honor of baptizing his grandson, his son-in-law, and even his own mother when she was in her late 80s.

Ronnie is survived by his beloved wife of forty-eight years, Diann Petrus; his daughters, Sommer (Peter) McKee and Lanna (Dwayne) Pekar; and his treasured grandchildren: Brooke (Bowen) Crisp, Micah McKee, Kenna McKee, Brennen McKee, Kate McKee, Blakeley Pekar, Brandt McKee, Briggs Pekar, and Braeden McKee. He is also survived by his siblings: Kathy Hidell, Bubba (Linda) Petrus, Mary Nell DeVaudrecourt, Angie (Johnny) Bounds, and Keith (Cathi) Petrus; his aunt, Hilda West; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. His life was richly intertwined with many special friends and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Ronnie Petrus will be remembered not only for his bravery in the face of adversity but also for the way he lived—with quiet strength, integrity, and a deep faith in his Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Details for the Celebration of Life:

Tuesday, May 27

Beginning at 11:30 a.m.

The Oaks Room

301 Del Webb Blvd.

Georgetown, TX 78633

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Ronald Petrus (122 Belfalls Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78633) to the Alzheimer's research organization of your choice or to Texas Right to Life.

However, if you prefer to send cards or flowers, PLEASE NOTE: Deliveries to The Oaks Room Del Webb address can not be received. Instead, kindly send them to the family's home at: 122 Belfalls Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78633, so that they can be acknowledged.