Ronald "Bud" Meyer

A much-loved husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather and brother to Elaine and Monica; Bud Meyer, 94, of Racine, Wisconsin, passed away on January 5, 2025 at his daughter and son-in-law’s home where he resided. Although hard work took its toll, Bud still maintained a dry sense of humor right up until his final words. Born on February 10, 1930, the son of Joseph J. And Cecelia R. (nee: Jordan) Meyer, he graduated from Racine County Agricultural High School in May of 1947 and enjoyed his life along with many lifelong friends. Bud was united in marriage to Mary Ann Rizzo on January 16, 1954 at St. Sebastianʼs Congregation in Sturtevant, WI, who proceeded him in death, February 13, 2021. They had seven children and fostered many more in addition to the numerous pets and farm animals that filled their lives. Bud farmed for many years, then was self-employed in the Securities and Insurance business where he took pride helping his friends’ long-term financial planning. In retirement, both Bud and Mary Ann enjoyed many winters vacationing with Racine County friends as well as forging many new friendships in Arizona. In past years, Bud had been an active member of St. Sebastians serving as a board member and secretary of the parish. He was also a past member of Roma Lodge, past president of Racine Toastmasters Club 481, and a board member of the Franksville Businessmen Association. Bud served three years each in the Army Reserve and National Guard, ending his duty as a recruiting sergeant. He was active as a coach for several years for Racine County Little League and Colt League baseball teams. He took pride in coaching his eldest son and many of his son’s friends. He and Mary Ann enjoyed playing Sheepshead card games with their high school friends for more than 60 years followed by newcomers who joined the group while others of their original team players entered heaven to continue their beloved games. That’s where we expect Bud most certainly has a seat at the table right now. In addition to cards, Bud relished planting a great garden and harvesting fresh vegetables from the field for Mary Ann’s gourmet meals. He especially loved to read good books. He enjoyed brandy ice or a good martini, cracking jokes with a Cheshire Cat smile, which he repeated often. He taught his children, through example, to work hard, be kind and appreciate others throughout life and then success will follow. Bud loved his family and instilled in them strong values that have served them well. Not to be forgotten, a rousing game of cribbage, especially with his grandchildren, was one of the highlights of his days in later life (as long as they let him win). He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. He greatly missed his departed wife, Mary Ann, son Robert ‘Bobbyʼ Meyer, sisters Monica and Elaine and his parents Joseph and Cecelia. United together again for all eternity. Surviving Bud are his sons Michael (Julie) Meyer and Kim Meyer; daughters Shawn (Mario) Denoto, Tamara (Brian) Jackson, Deborah Meyer and Gina Meyer (Mark) Hardiman; grandchildren Amanda (Omar) Rivera, Mateo and Owen Denoto, Robert (R.J.) and Brooklyn Meyer-Shaﬀer and great-grandchild Michael Rivera. In honor of Bud’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. at St. Sebstian’s Parish. A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. A luncheon will follow immediately after Mass on the lower level of the church. Our family would like to thank his team of doctors over many years including Dr. Gullberg who on Dad’s 80th, said he would get him to 90 (Dad was doubtful) and at 90, said he could live to 100 (Dad replied, no thank you!). We are thankful for almost 95 years of a very full life. For those wishing to remember Bud in a special way, in lieu of flowers, donations to Pathways Living & Learning Center at 1100 Commerce Drive, Mt. Pleasant, WI, an organization that supports his special needs son, Kim and many wonderful individuals or St. Sebastian Parish at stsebracine.org are suggested.

Tributes

Ronald "Bud" Meyer

February 10, 1930 - January 5, 2025