Ronald Ylitalo

Ronald Otto Winston Ylitalo, age 84 of Grantsburg, WI, passed away on Thursday, March 30, 2017. Ron was born in Sault Ste. Marie, MI, on Jan 12, 1933, to John and Saima Ylitalo. The first language he spoke was Finnish. Ron was raised in Floodwood, MN, where he delivered groceries for his father’s store, and played football. Ron earned a degree in Law from the University of Minnesota; he practiced his law profession in St. Paul. Ron liked hunting, fishing, and trips in the BWCA. He played the trumpet, and enjoyed the Minnesota Orchestra. He loved to ski, run 5k races, walk and collect rocks. He liked to draw, take photos, make signs & visit museums. He designed two houses. He enjoyed writing letters to the editor. His hero was Abraham Lincoln. He loved kids, dogs and cats. Ron is survived by his sons, Craig (Kristin) Ylitalo and Grant Ylitalo. He is preceded in death by his brothers, Ray and Roy; and his sister, June. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ron’s life at Trollhaugen Ski Resort in Dresser, WI, on Saturday, April 29, 2017. from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. Respecting Ron’s interests: Memorials may be sent to Crex Meadows Wildlife Area in Grantsburg, WI, www.crexmeadows.org or MN public radio Classical MPR 99.5 FM, KSJN, www.classicalmpr.org. Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Grantsburg, WI, has been assisting the family.