Ronald John Gerstung

Ronald John Gerstung, born on October 26, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, peacefully passed away on April 19, 2026, while in hospice care with his family by his side. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose life was marked by dedication, service, and a passion for sports.

Ronald was born to Herbert Gerstung and Geraldine Musso and spent his early years growing up in Chicago until he joined the military. He proudly served 25 years in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. During his distinguished military career, he served tours in Germany and Vietnam and was honored with numerous awards including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and multiple Good Conduct Medals with Oak Leaf Clusters. Ronald was a proud Vietnam veteran. Ronald served in the ultimate job as an assistant to the Athletic Director at the Air Force Academy. Ronald worked in the press box during the Cadet football games and ran the Zamboni in the Field house during hockey games and ice time sessions

Following his military service, Ronald retired from Farm Credit and also contributed several years of his career working for the Colorado Rockies. He further enriched his community by coaching youth hockey in the Colorado Springs and Littleton areas, where he was well known for mentoring young players.

Ronald had a deep love for sports throughout his life. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Bears, and Chicago Cubs, and enjoyed golf and travel. In his younger years, he loved fishing and hunting. He was also a collector of sports memorabilia, cherished playing pool with his grandchildren, and had a special affection for his dogs.

Ronald is survived by his wife, Ellen Gerstung, of 41 years.

He is survived by his daughter Patricia Moreno and her children Gabriella Moreno and Tito Moreno.

He is survived by his son Ronald Gerstung and wife Cheryl and their children Jarrett and Cody. along with Ronald’s great-grandchildren Connor and Callie Gerstung.

He is survived by his son Robert Gerstung and wife Sandy, Robert's children Lauren Geise and husband Tyler, and daughter Jennifer Gerstung, along with Ronald’s great-granddaughter Kennedy Geise.

Also remembered fondly is Riley O’Riley, his beloved poodle who preceded him in passing.

Known for his quick wit and warmth, Ronald had a gift for lightening any mood with a joke or family story. He was someone who could enter a room as a stranger and leave as a friend. He was an active member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Elks.

Ronald’s family shares this heartfelt poem in his memory:

Until We Meet Again

We think about you always

We talk about you still

You have never been forgotten

And you never will

We hold you close within our hearts

And there you will remain

To walk and guide us through our lives

Until we meet again

A lifelong Cubs fan, Ronald often said, “I live and die with the Chicago Cubs,” and joyfully proclaimed when they won the World Series, “I can die now!”

A visitation will be held on May 6th at 11:00 a.m. at Horan and McConaty, 5303 E County Line Rd, Centennial, CO, followed by burial at 1:00 p.m. at Fort Logan National Cemetery, 4400 W Kenyon Ave, Denver, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, donations are kindly requested to be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Ronald’s honor.

Ronald John Gerstung’s legacy of service, mentorship, and family devotion will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him.