Ron Frame passed away on June 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy as wide as the prairie sky he called home.
Born with grit in his bones and mischief in his smile, Ron lived life the cowboy way—honest, hard-working, and always ready with a one-liner that could disarm the sourest of moods—or cause one.
Ron died as he lived: proud, on his own terms, determined to fight his illness, impatient, and yes — swearing.
A lifelong cowboy and rancher, Ron knew the land, the livestock, and the rhythm of the seasons better than most folks know their own schedule. He believed in doing things right, fixing what was broken, and leaving things better than he found them. He never shied away from a hard day’s work or a good laugh, and he taught those around him the true meaning of resilience, loyalty, and looking life straight in the eye.
Ron attended Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, South Dakota, on a basketball scholarship before leaving to enlist in the U.S. Army, where he served in Europe. When he returned home, he went to work on the Panek Ranch in Piedmont, where he would build his life and raise his family.
He will be remembered for his humor, charm, legendary shenanigans, and a laugh that could fill a room. He had a handshake you could trust, a quick wit you’d best be ready for, and a heart big enough to carry the burdens of those he loved. Whether he was pulling your leg, lending you a hand, or spinning a tale at the kitchen table, you knew you were in the company of someone unforgettable.
Ron was predeceased by his parents, David and Mary Frame, and his brothers Glenn and Duane. He is survived by his sister, Jean Hoehne, of Sussex, New Jersey.
He leaves behind his wife of 59 years, Janet; son, Cody; daughters, Camille and Calley (Mike) Davis; and proudly wore the title of “Ganpa!” to three beloved grandchildren, Payne, Preston, and Payge Davis. His family and friends will carry forward the stories, lessons, and laughter he left behind, like footprints in a dusty corral.
As he rides off into the great beyond, we tip our hats and say: Thank you, Ron. You were one of the good ones, and you sure made this world a little rowdier — and a whole lot better — while you were here.
Funeral services will be Monday, July 14, 2025 at LifeSpring Wesleyan Church, Sturgis, SD. Burial, with military Honors, will follow at Black Hills National Cemetery.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.
