The Pratie Du Chein and MFL Mar-Mac community is mourning the loss of 78-year-old coach, Ronald Vick, who lost his life on Sunday, October 25.
He took his last breath at Aase Haugen Home in Decorah, Iowa, following a short-term illness.
Ronald is survived by his children, Colin (Vick) and his wife Katie of Verona, WI, and daughter Amanda Vick of Marquette, IA, along with seven grandchildren.
Coach Ronald was born on March 16, 1946, and was an Alumnus of Decorah High School (1964) before serving in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1969.
In 1972, Vick graduated from Luther College with a degree in teaching, majoring in Physical Education, before also adding Elementary Education to his résumé.
Four years later, he married Deidre Ann Pederson, and together they raised two children, Colin and Amanda.
Ronald Was More Than Just a Coach
Ronald’s impact truly came through his five decades at MFL Mar-Mac Community School District, where he served as a teacher, coach, athletic director, bus driver, and, later, a substitute teacher.
He coached not just one or two but numerous sports, inclusing baseball, basketball, track, and cross country, helping different generations of young athletes, who still carry his influence to this day.
Those who knew him remember him not just for his commitment, but for his kindness and humor.
“Oh no. So sad. I wanted to get over and see him this week too. We had such a nice visit recently. So many wonderful memories as dance partners over the years,” shared Kelly Fishler, reflecting on their longtime friendship.
Abby Schellhorn, a former student, added, “Rest in peace to one of the best substitute teachers to walk through MFL Mar-Mac. He will be greatly missed by the whole student body.”
An old friend of the Coach added,
one I coached against and eventually coached with. To all the great memories we had in the halls of MFLMarMac and on tracks and cross-country courses we roamed over forty-eight years, they will stay with me for the rest of my life. It is a time of sadness, but he is no longer suffering. I am truly sorry for the family’s loss, and my prayers go out to his family. “Eternal rest grant unto him and let the perpetual light shine upon him.”
A memorial service will be held at a later date in the McGregor area, giving the community a chance to come together and celebrate the life of a man who gave so much of himself to others.
