Ronald A. Wait, former member of the Illinois House of Representatives, devoted farmer, and lifelong Boone County resident, went to be with the Lord on December 30, 2024. Born on April 15, 1944, the son of Grace (Smith) and Cecil Wait, Ron dedicated his life to serving his community and helping others. He upheld his family's farming legacy at Wait Farms and stayed close to his roots, consistently advocating for the citizens of Boone County.

Ronald was a lifelong learner, earning bachelor's degrees in Accounting, master's degrees in business administration and education, and a Juris Doctor degree in law. His remarkable career in public service included serving as a member of the Illinois House of Representatives from 1983 to 1993 and 1995 to 2011. Over his 28 years as a farmer, teacher, lawyer, accountant, and Illinois lawmaker, Ron's legacy endures in the countless lives he touched through his service and dedication.

An active volunteer for numerous community organizations, Ron demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving his community. Ron was a tenured volunteer. He didn't just attach his name to an organization, he rolled up his sleeves and was an active board member or volunteer.  Throughout the years he has supported many organizations and held roles such as: President of Highland Hospital Board of Trustees, Interim Volunteer CEO of Highland Hospital, Trustee of the First United Methodist Church of Belvidere, Chairman of the Budget & Admissions Committee of the United Givers Board (now United Way), Boone County Board Member, Member of the Children's Home & Aide Society Board, Member of the Boone County Housing Authority Board (40+ year member, 20+ year President), Member & Advocate of Janet Wattles Mental Health Board (now Rosecrance), Member of Illinois Bar Association, Vice President of the Boone County Bar Association (45+ year member), Delegate to the Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, Chairman of the Agricultural Council of the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Board, Legislative Chairman for the Boone County Farm Bureau, Appointed Member of the Community Building Complex Board, Member of the Cosmopolitan Club of Belvidere (20+ year member), Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce Member, Flora Grange Member, Moose Club Member & Volunteer. Ron was a sports enthusiast and spent 4 years as a Track and Basketball Coach at Belvidere high school, and a Belvidere Family YMCA Board Member and basketball coach there also. He was the proud recipient of the Doctor of Civic Betterment Award from the Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce. It was the same award his mother was presented in 1966.

He married the love of his life, Jody, in February of 1987, and together they shared 10 years of marriage before she passed away in 1997. Ron kept Jody with him in his heart throughout all of his accomplishments, always paying tribute to her and his mother in every speech he gave.

Ron's adventurous spirit and love for learning extended into his travels. He cherished meeting new people and experiencing diverse cultures, exploring countries such as China, Australia, New Zealand, Scotland, and much of Europe by train.

Despite his many accomplishments, Ron remained grounded in his faith, family, and community. He treasured quality time with loved ones, whether enjoying trips to the movies, traveling, or sharing meals together.

He is survived by his brothers, Roger (Nancy) Wait, Dean (Karen) Wait, special nephew, Mickey Klink and family, nieces and nephews, Chris (John) Banks, Scott (Sarah Herlihy) Wait, Adam (Stephanie Oliveieri) Wait, Ashley (Greg) Wait-Woodcock, and Tara (Rick) Albores; twelve great-nieces and nephews; and numerous extended family members, dear friends, and esteemed colleagues whom he cherished deeply.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jody Wait, brother, Richard, and his parents, Grace and Cecil Wait.

Ron's legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Ron's memorial visitation will be on Friday, March 21, 2025 between the hours of 3pm-7pm at the Community Building Complex of Boone County located at 111 W 1st St, Belvidere, IL 61008. His memorial service will be the following day, Saturday, March 22nd at 11am at the Community Building.