Ronald Joe Vencel

 Ronald J. Vencel, 69, of Terre Haute passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, April 3, 2022.  He leaves behind his wife and best friend of 39 years, Mary Anne Golden Vencel.  Ron was born August 20, 1952 in Terre Haute to Edna H. And Michael J. Vencel, Jr. He is survived by a niece Becky Golden, her husband Chris McCarter, and their daughters, Mary Kate and Madelyn Grace plus many special aunts, uncles, and cousins. Ron was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law and-sister-in-law Gregg and Mary Sue Golden.

      Ron attended Honey Creek High School, graduating in 1970.  He then went to Indiana State University and ultimately graduated with a degree in pharmacy from Purdue University in 1975. Returning to Terre Haute, Ron worked for Osco Drug at Honey Creek Mall until beginning a

24-year career as pharmacy manager with the Kroger Company.  Given the opportunity for something more rewarding with personal customer service, in 2001 Ron embarked as co-owner with Jack Ragle in the creation of JR Pharmacy … a new, independent pharmacy in Terre Haute.  Becoming sole owner a few years later, he and Mary Anne eventually expanded to five stores including Rockville and Cayuga, soon to be six with the West Terre Haute location.  Ron also owns Wabash Valley Armory which was established in 2012.

     Ron’s first love was farming, which he did with his dad, Mike, as a “hobby” while both held full time jobs. He always said that he was happiest behind the wheel of the tractor working alongside his dad. We felt so fortunate to have his cousin, Gus Vencel (wife Terri) farm our ground in recent years. After his dad’s passing, Ron enjoyed teaming up with neighbor and friend, Bill Hayne on many projects. Ron grew a large, beautiful garden each summer and enjoyed sharing the bounty with others but every year he said that would be his last one!

     One of his favorite things was to spend time relaxing with family and long-time friend Merle Snyder on the beaches in Florida each October.  However, being the workaholic that he was, everyone who knew him realized how hard it was for him to rest and relax. He definitely inherited that work ethic from his parents. He was always doing for others but especially everything for Mary Anne.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parke Vermillion Humane Society, 1884 SR 63 N, Hillsdale, IN 47854 or the Terre Haute Humane Society, 1811 S. Fruitridge Ave., Terre Haute, IN 47803.

     Mary Anne would like to thank the neighbors (especially Jack Roberts and Bill Winkle), our dear friends and relatives who have supported her and shown their love for Ron.  Mary Anne and Ron greatly appreciate Scott and all JR Pharmacy employees and their families who have always given their hard work, dedication, and love – as well as our customers for their continued support.

     A visitation is being held Sunday, April 10, 2022 from 4:00 until 7:00 pm at DeBaun Springhill Chapel located at 85 E. Springhill Dr., Terre Haute.  Online condolences may be made to www.debaunfuneralhomes.com.

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