Ronald E. Black, 96, of Urbana passed away at 5:15 A.M. Sunday October 17, 2021 at Meadowbrook Nursing Home, Urbana.


 Graveside services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday October 22, 2021 at Ridgeland Township Cemetery, Thawville, IL.

 Freese Funeral Home 302 E. Grand Ave. St. Joseph is in charge of arrangements.


 "Ronnie" was born June 6, 1925 at Delrey, IL. The son of A. Hayes and Mollie (Benson) Black. He married Peggy L. Tilstra on February 5, 1950. She preceded him in death on December 2, 2020. 

 He was also preceded by his parents, daughter-in-law Judy Black, three brothers and one sister.

 He is survived by his sons; Clifford (Rita) Black of Pleasant Prairie, WI and Todd Black of Tuscola, IL. Two granddaughters Melissa (Cris)Manfredin and Amy (JR) Ross, three great-grandchildren.
 
 Ronald was a true American hero and veteran of WW II and the Korean War. He flew 53 bombing missions. He also served as a master navigator/bombardier in the Strategic Air Command and Chief of Plans and Intelligence for the Minute Man Missile program. He retired in 1969 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force.

 Ronald was an instructor at Parkland Junior College from 1973 to 1993. He taught Geography, Geology and Meteorology.