Ronnie Ray McFate, 81, of Eldridge, Iowa, passed away on October 14, 2024. He fought a courageous 36-year battle with cancer through a bold, positive spirit that defied all odds. A special thank you to Grand Haven staff, Heartland Hospice and Veteran Affairs of the Quad Cities for their loving support and comfort care Ron received throughout his illness.

Ron was born on October 20, 1942, in Davenport, Iowa to Raymond and Louise McFate. Ronnie was known for his cheery personality, contagious smile, and boundless energy. He was the life of the party who valued spontaneity and always willing to explore unknown roads. Ron cherished his family and many friends. He showed great pride in always offering a helpful hand to his friends, neighbors and family. His outgoing nature meant he never met a stranger and wanted to talk to everybody whether through a "good buddy" story or a joke.

A proud veteran, Ronnie served in the United States Army from 1961-1964, with deployment in the Vietnam War while stationed in Korea. Following his military service, he worked at Collins Radio (Rockwell) in Cedar Rapids where he met his wife of 39-years, Karyl Tindall. He briefly rented a farmhouse in Macomb, Illinois before embarking on a successful life time-year career in data processing within the banking industry. He was recognized as a true salesman who could sell weeds to a lawn service. From chores growing up on a working farm to after retirement, he still logged hours at Design Homes in Eldridge.

Ronnie graduated from Olin High School in 1960 and later from business college in Des Moines.

Ron had a love for cars while finding the thrill in driving fast and exploring shortcuts, especially in his Ford Mustang. He truly enjoyed the journey and never worried about the destination. His community spirit was evident through his hobbies; he was an avid golfer, dancer, sudoku enthusiast, card player, and passionately supported North Scott and Iowa/Iowa State sports. He spent many years coaching his sons' baseball team which he made base runners signals more like a dance form. Ronnie appreciated music through playing guitar and singing karaoke. He loved listening to AM talk radio. Over the years, he spent lots of time researching his family tree, his ancestors and relatives meant a lot to him. Ron was an active member in several clubs and organizations such as the: Donahue Sportsman Club, Donahue Lions, North Scott Athletic Boosters, American Legion, and Elks Club. He enjoyed volunteering as a firefighter in several communities. He worshiped at Faith Lutheran in Eldridge, Iowa, where he was on the long-time prayer list. His family appreciates the congregation for their support and prayers.

Ronnie is survived by his former wife, Karyl McFate, Eldridge, IA; his children, Rodney, Oxford Junction, IA; Kelleen, Eldridge; and Kerry (Jen Watson), Queens, NY; his grandson, Payton (Alyssa Davis), LeClaire, IA; his sister, Judy Peterson, Marion, IA; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his beloved grand-pets, Boots, Clovis, and Woodstock. He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Spear McFate, and his mother, Louise Wigger McFate.

A visitation will be held at Chapman Funeral Home in Clarence, Iowa at 9:30am with a service to follow at 11am. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ronnie's memory can be made to the Donahue Fire Department or Veterans of Quad City, honoring his lifelong commitment to community service and support for fellow veterans. Ronnie's legacy of joy, service, and community engagement will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.