Ronald “Ronnie” Hammond

Ronald “Ronnie” Hammond, 84, of Canton, who never knew a stranger, passed away Sunday, January 17, 2021, at Graham Hospital in Canton.

He was born on October 9, 1936, in Havana to Francis and Myra (Rose) Hammond. They preceded him in death.

Ronnie is survived by his wife June (Gabrielson) Hammond, whom he married on November 24, 1979 in Canton.

Also surviving are seven children; David (Lucenda) Hammond of Maquon, Echo Wilson of Peoria, Mark Hammond of Canton, Larry Rilea of Canton, Bruce Hammond of Wisconsin, Tammy Smith of Canton and Marcena (Amee Adkins) Gabrielson of Georgia, fourteen grandchildren, Miranda, Kimberly, David, Jaclyn, Trace, Addison, Larry Carl, Nathan, Lindsey, Tucker, Samantha, Caleb, Cameron and Lynn, and nine great grandchildren.

Also preceding him in death is one Grandson Matthew, two sisters Patricia Rose and Arlen McGuire and two brothers, Dick Hammond and George Hammond.

Ronnie worked at Caterpillar for 36 years retiring in 1990. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Canton and he was member of the Canton Masonic Lodge for over 50 years, as well as the consistory of Peoria and Grotto of East Peoria.

Ronnie was bold and was known for his gift of telling old stories and classic jokes. He loved boating and fishing and was a die-hard Cubs Fan. He loved music and could burst into a rendition of “White Sport Coat” with a voice that rivaled Marty Robbins himself. Ronnie loved his family and always made sure that they knew it. He will be missed

A graveside service will be held on Saturday January 23, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton. A Facebook livestream will be provided through the Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory’s Facebook page. There will be no visitation.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

Online condolences may be posted at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.