Ronnie (Bench) Dean Regenwether age 71 passed peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday December 12th at The University of Iowa Hospital. Visitation will be held Thursday Dec. 19th 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Pape Funeral Home, followed by a 7:00 PM funeral service at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.papefh.com
Ronnie spent his entire adult life committed and in love with Jean (Lund) Regenwether. Their marriage of 49 years was an inspiration. Their playful banter, always with a smile on their faces, is easy for those who saw it to remember. Ronnie thought of his nephew, Steve Regenwether as a son. They spent many days turning a few hours trip to Iowa City or Chicago into an entire day and night adventure stopping along the way to share a story, a cold craft beer and some music. Ronnie supported and enjoyed local sports teams. His generosity to share with others often found him with a box full of family and friends at the Quad City River Bandits game, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks, Iowa Hawkeye wrestling, and the Denver Broncos have all lost one of their biggest fans. He had absolute love of music, especially rock from the 1960’s 70’s and 80’s. His hobby was recording his favorite albums and playing music while cooking. He enjoyed working in the yard with his wife and tending to his beloved Koi Pond. His beloved dogs, especially Miss Bella princess will miss him dearly.
A lifelong advocate for healthy living Ronnie worked out daily and was a mentor to many on their health journey. In partnership with his wife he founded and owned Body Works Fitness. He inspired others take their lifting to the next level and compete. He was always cheering others on in the gym and in life. Ronnie competed in many body building competitions on the state, local and national levels. Winning many titles in the open and masters divisions. He was proud to be all natural and still able to be competitive. Winning the overall open division of the Mr. Minnesota and was a highlight for him. He was also a proud to be a pro natural body builder. Ronnie worked at Lyondell in Clinton before retiring. Ronnie found the good in everything and everyone. His humor, quick wit and positive personality will be missed.
Ron is survived by his wife, Jean Regenwether of LeClaire, IA; a brother, Gary (Karen) Regenwether; 7 nieces and nephews, Lori, Wendy, Marc, Jennifer, Mike, Steve and Melissa; and an exceptional friend who was like family, Troy Porter. Ronnie was proceeded in death by his parents George and Marvel Regenwether; his in-laws, Ira and Donna Jean Lund; a brother, Orin Regenwether and two sisters, Judy Carlson and Janet Regenwether. In leu of flowers Jean requests donations be sent to K9 Kindness rescue, Davenport or Rockstar Cocker Spaniel rescue, Fulton, IL.
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Glenn J. McDonnell age 88March 18, 1936 - December 18, 2024 Clinton, Iowa
Gina M. Anderson – 56October 27, 1968 - December 15, 2024 Low Moor, Iowa
Luis Angel Riojas age 69July 6, 1955 - December 14, 2024 Bettendorf, Iowa- Ronnie D. “Bench” Regenwether age 71Sept. 13, 1953 - Dec. 12, 2024 LeClaire, Iowa
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Jean, I am so sorry for your loss. You have so many years of wonderful memories that will continue to bring smiles through your tears.
Jean so sorry to read of Ron’s passing. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Larry & Sherri (Eberle) Klasi
Jean, I am so sorry for your loss. Your and Ron’s love and relationship was an example for all. I am thinking of and praying for you, my friend.
We never meet you and I my view of your world was through you’re beautiful wife. Her love and devotion to you will always be in her heart ❤️. We all will enjoy stories about you and will be there for her.
Our hearts and prayers go out to you Jean and all who knew and loved Ron. He was an extraordinary man and a gift to the world. Ron will be missed. We are thankful to have known him.
So, so sorry to hear of your loss. We know how much he meant to you and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Our deepest sympathy to you. Keeping you in our prayers.
Dear Jean you are in my heart I know you have a lot of support and I am thrilled about that! take special care of YOU!
Kathleen Collins
Some great memories of working out at my first gym and it was The Body Works. What a wonderful place I was 14 and learned everything about lifting from that gym. Thank you ???? so much for being an inspiration to alot of people.
My condolences to you and the family. I have so many fond memories of Ron and I training together. He was an inspiration to those that knew him as trainer, competitor, worker and friend. May he rest in peace!
Jean, My heartfelt condolences to you and family. Ron was loved by so many people who had the honor of knowing him. He bought a smile and brighten the days of those he worked with, competed with, and lifted with. The both of you were a beautiful team that worked so well and exemplified what love is. The world is a better place for those of us who were blessed with your friendship over the years.????
I’m so saddened to hear about Ron. Prayers for you and the rest of his family.
Oh Jean I am so saddened to learn of Ron’s passing. Sending many heartfelt condolences ????.
Thinking of you, Jean, and those who knew and loved Ron.
So sorry for your loss Jean. Ron was a wonderful guy. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Carmen &Wanda
I am saddened by your loss, Jean. Ron was an exceptional person in every way. He always went the extra mile to help others, and he will be missed terribly.
Jean, Steve and I send our sincere condolences in Ron’s passing. We went to school with Ron and graduated with him. We will always remember what a nice guy he was.
Anyone who knew Ron is a better person because of it. He was a special man, always positive even with his long cancer fight. His sense of humor and smile were inspiring. Ron will be missed by so many. Rest in peace my friend