Ronald Wackett, age 81, of Valparaiso, passed away at home on Saturday June 11, 2016. He was born on November 3, 1934 to the late Hilton and Viola (nee Welch) Wackett. Ronald was a proud member of the United States Army. He earned a bachelor's degree from Valparaiso University and a master's degree from Antioch College in Maryland. Ronald worked as a Lutheran school teacher in Chicago and was an independent contractor with "UFCW", United Food and Commercial Workers. He also spent time as a choir director at several churches, a soccer coach for 12 years, and a foster parent for 25 years. Ronald will always be remembered as a hardworking and generous husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Wackett of 59 years; daughters, Angela Lang, Kristin (Steve) duFaux; sons, Kevin (Karen) Wackett, Tim (Betsy) Wackett, Greg ( Laura) Wackett and Tony Wackett. Grandchildren, Amber (Carlo Belardinelli) Cosentino, Lauren Cosentino, Adam Cosentino, David (Rachel) Wackett, Steven (Olivia) Wackett, Andrew (Hannah) Wackett, Joshua Wackett, Zachary Wackett, Julianna Wackett, Taylor Wackett, Holly Hill; seven great-grandchildren; sister, JoAnn Howerton; sisters in law, Barbara Baumann, Sylvia Kerr; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, David Wackett; and two nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made, in Ronald's honor, to Trinity Lutheran Church, 900 Luther Drive, Hobart, IN 46342 or to the City of Hobart, Maria Reiner Center, 705 East 4th Street Hobart, IN 46342.

Friends are invited to join the family in celebrating Ron's life on Saturday, August 6, 2016 at 11:00 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, 900 Luther Drive, Hobart. Lunch and fellowship will follow the services at 12:00 pm. For more information, please call (219) 942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.